Man Pleads Guilty to Racially Aggravated Assault at Peterborough Mosque

A 57-year-old man in Peterborough was arrested after entering the Alma Road Mosque during early morning prayers and becoming disorderly and abusive, with charges including religiously aggravated harassment and racially aggravated offences. The incident, which occurred at about 6:45 a.m., did not result in any injuries, and police consider it an isolated event. The man has pleaded guilty to some charges but denies others and has been released on bail with conditions barring him from the mosque. In response, police announced increased presence near mosques in the city to provide reassurance. Local officials, including the city's Labour MP Andrew Pakes and council leader Shabina Qayyum, condemned the incident, expressing solidarity with the Muslim community and committing to ensure their safety. The government has also announced additional funding to support Muslim community groups and places of worship following the attack.