A mosque in Prestwich was at the center of a major emergency response after an unknown substance was delivered by post.
Authorities, including police and fire services, swiftly arrived at the Masjid Bilal Islamic Centre on Bury Old Road following reports of the suspicious material.
Greater Manchester Police has initiated an investigation to determine whether the incident was a hoax or a legitimate chemical threat. In their statement, the police confirmed they had received reports regarding the substance and, as a precautionary measure, evacuated the mosque while coordinating with the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS).
Fortunately, no individuals reported feeling unwell as a result of the substance, and authorities believe there is no wider risk to the community. Firefighters were deployed to assist with the evacuation and establish a safety cordon around the mosque to ensure the area remained secure.
The incident was reported around 4:15 PM, prompting the rapid response of two fire engines to the scene. Firefighters conducted a thorough assessment of the situation and subsequently left the mosque after determining that there was no immediate danger.
Investigations are now underway to ascertain the nature of the substance and the intent behind its delivery. The prompt actions of the emergency services have been commended, as they prioritized public safety in a potentially hazardous situation.
As authorities work to uncover more details, the community remains on alert, but reassured by the absence of any reported health issues linked to the incident.
