Walsall mosque will step up security after bomb

Detectives are continuing to trawl CCTV as part of the investigation into the discovery of the device by the Aisha Mosque and Islamic Centre in Rutter Street off the busy Coproration Street.

The force has said there was currently no evidence to suggest it was an act of terrorism, but stressed they were keeping an open mind

The device was discovered on Saturday night but is believed to have exploded on Friday.

Zia Ul-Haq, a senior member of the mosque, said: "The community is coping quite well, it is business as normal. There is a bit of concern, that is to be expected.

"The mosque as it is has a very good security system but we are thinking of upgrading it."

The community has vowed to maintain a united front and leading civic and church figures have given their support to people in Caldmore.

Walsall Mayor and assistant Police Commisioner for the West Midlands, Councillor Mohammad Nazir, said: "If this proves to be an attack against a place of worship, then it is an attack on everyone whatever their beliefs because it's an attack on the right to believe and practice your beliefs.

"I am proud of the response of the local community, it's refused to be panicked it's refused to be intimated or cowed; not just muslims but all sections of Walsall's community.

"If whoever planted this device intended to divide us then they have failed. We have to keep that unity and determination to live our lives in peace and not let violence win."

Rt Rev Clive Gregory, Bishop of Wolverhampton who leads the Church of England in the area, said: "I am disturbed that a homemade bomb should be found. It has rightly been called a hate crime by the police.

"It is a place where the hospitality and warm welcome I have received at meetings with other faith leaders remains fresh in my memory.

"I am sure they will stand with me in condemning any sinister action against any part of our diverse but harmonious communities.

"So I am confident that all involved will respond in a calm and measured way, and that Walsall's excellent community relations will not be affected."

West Midlands Police Assistant Chief Constable Sharon Rowe has described the incident as a 'despicable' act.

She said: "I want to reassure every community in the West Midlands that we are using every available resource to find the person or people responsible."