Source: metronews.ca

Edmonton Police deputy Chief Danielle Campbell

Muslim leaders in Edmonton said Thursday they’re disgusted by the acts of violence committed in the name of their religion.

“We’re very sad and really upset that such things are happening, especially that they are happening in the name of Islam,” said Mohyuddin Mirza, the outreach director with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

He said the attack against military members in Ottawa and Quebec don’t reflect an understanding of the faith.

“It’s the foundation of our understanding of Islam that there is absolutely no violence,” he said.

He said the community is worried people will respond against the faith because of these actions.

“It can always happen. We have already tightened the security at our Mosque. There is always the potential there,” he said.

Edmonton Police deputy Chief Danielle Campbell said the force has a good working relationship with faith groups and stays in close contact after incidents like this.

“We have reached out to some of other communities to see if they have any concerns,” he said.

Campbell also said she doesn’t believe people who become radicalized have to come from any particular faith group.

“When someone gets radicalized to violence it’s not based on the colour of their skin. It is not based on their faith. It’s based on an individual’s vulnerability.”