MUSLIMS in Leamington have joined the world-wide condemnation of the terrorist shootings at the Charile Hebdo Offices in Paris.
Two masked men armed with assault rifles stormed the satirical magazine’s offices before killing eight journalists – including the magazine’s editor – together with two policemen, a caretaker and a visitor.
Mohammed Salim, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association in Leaminton, said: “The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, since its inception in 1889 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, has always taught the true message of Islam which is of peace and love.
“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association in Leamington, has also produced a video on YouTube condemning the attacks, which can be viewed here: http://youtu.be/s77JgiT6ypc.
“The Association will also be holding a function to promote the true peaceful values of Islam later this month entitled ‘How to Achieve Peace in the World’.”
Charlie Hebdo has previously angered some Muslims by printing cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad, and its offices were firebombed in 2011.
The gunmen were heard shouting “we have avenged the Prophet Muhammad” and “God is Great” in Arabic as the fled the scene.
A massive manhunt has been launched in France for brothers Cherif and Said Kouachi, while a third 18 year-old man handed himself into police. Police have made seven arrests in total to date.
Paris has been placed on the highest terrorist alert and extra troops and police have been brought into the city.
Vigils have been held in Paris and across the world in tribute to those killed in the attacks, with many holding placards reading “Je suis Charlie” (I am Charlie) in solidarity with the victims.
