A 22 year old man has been arrested by police investigating vandalism of Muslim graves in south Manchester. He was held by Greater Manchester Police on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage and has been bailed until 11 March 2010 pending further inquiries.

As reported by MULE last year a spate of three separate incidents occurred in September and November, in which headstones were broken, pushed over and smashed at Southern Cemetary. In response various religious leaders and organisers of anti-fascist group Unite Against Facism (UAF) condemned the attacks and peace vigils were held.

The timing of the first incident was significant, taking place just a week before a demonstration planned by the anti-Islam group English Defence League (EDL).

Inquiries are ongoing, and police are continuing to appeal for information. Anyone who can help is asked to call police on 0161 856 6151 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.