Faith leaders condemn terrorist attack at London Bridge
Representatives of London's faith community have condemned the terrorist attack at London Bridge where two people were killed and several others were injured by a man wielding a knife.
The attacker, 28-year-old Usman Khan, was wrestled to the ground by bystanders while another man disarmed him of his long knife, video footage released Friday shows.
Khan, who was also wearing a device strapped to his body, was shot dead by armed officers. The Metropolitan Police later said the device was a "hoax explosive device."
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"A male suspect was shot by specialist armed officers from City of London Police and I can confirm that this suspect died at the scene," said Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations Neil Basu in a statement.
"A number of other people received injuries during the incident and as soon as we can provide further updates on their condition, we will. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to those anxiously awaiting news from loved ones."
Khan was previously convicted and jailed for terrorism offences in 2012 for his role in the 2010 Stock Exchange plot that was inspired by al-Qaida, the Metropolitan Police said.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said today's terrorist attack was an "appalling" incident.
"I want to thank the emergency services and members of the public for their immense bravery in responding to this suspected terrorist attack at London Bridge," he said.
"This is an appalling incident and all my thoughts are with the victims and their families."
London Mayor Sadiq Khan also thanked the "brave" emergency services and members of the public who risked their own safety to disarm Khan.
"They are the best of us," he said, as he asked Londoners "to remain vigilant."
In a separate incident Friday evening in The Hague, Netherlands, three people were wounded in a stabbing on a busy shopping street. Dutch police said the suspect got away.
The London Faiths Forum condemned the London Bridge terrorist attack in a statement in which it called on the nation to stand together.
"We, as representatives of many of London's faith communities, deplore the terrible attack that has taken place today at London Bridge," the statement reads.
"All of our religions exalt the sanctity of human life. There is no justification for such a barbaric assault on innocent people. Terrorism has no place on our streets.
"Our prayers are with the victims, their families and all those affected by this terrible act.
"We call for Londoners, and our nation to stand together at this time.
"We will redouble our efforts to work for peace, compassion, understanding and hope. Our message is clear: 'Turn to love.'"
The Church of England has issued a prayer in response to the terrorist attack, which reads:
Lord, ever watchful and faithful,
we look to you to be our defense.
Grant courage to those who protect us,
and comfort to those who are injured and fearful,
as we lift our hearts to know your help,
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen
This piece was originally published at Christian Today here.
