BLACKBURN with Darwen’s Council leader sent a powerful message of defiance in the face of the synagogue siege in America.

Mohammed Khan praised the reaction the people of Blackburn had given following the incident in Texas on Saturday.

Malik Faisal Akram, from Blackburn, took four hostages in the 10-hour stand-off who were all eventually released unharmed.

The 44-year-old, who grew up in Bastwell, was shot dead when the FBI stormed Congregation Beth Israel synagogue in Colleyville.

Cllr Khan said: “I will never forget Blackburn’s dignified and compassionate response to this terrible incident.

“There has been a tremendous outpouring of solidarity and support for everyone affected by this week’s tragic events.

"We are united against these terrible crimes. The civic pride and the togetherness, which sets our town and community apart from so many, has been evident following this terrible incident.

"Acts of this kind are designed to divide us, but we must always remember that Blackburn has a reputation for strong community relations and cohesion across the town – we stand together.

"It remains more important than ever to uphold these local strengths."

It is not yet clear how Akram, who had a criminal record in the UK, was able to travel to the US two weeks ago. US officials believe Akram had a visa, arrived at John F Kennedy International Airport in New York and bought the handgun used in the incident.

At one point he demanded the release of Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui, who was convicted of trying to kill US army officers in Afghanistan, and is in prison in Texas.

Cllr Khan vowed to not let “hate and division” win as he sent a powerful statement about the solidarity and unity that the town was showing during this dark time.

He said: “This is Blackburn, a minority will not hinder our resolve as a strong and united community.”

He sent a powerful message to terrorists by saying that people getting on with their daily lives was the best way to stand up to hatred.

“While it is important that people remain vigilant, it is vital that we do not allow those who hate our way of life and our solidarity to prevail,” he added.

“There is no room for anyone like this here. This behaviour has no place in our society. I implore everyone to uphold our core values of tolerance and fairness, embrace difference, and above everything be kind to one another.”

Responding to questions around the town’s safety, Cllr Khan added: "We are continuing to work with police and other agencies to ensure the full facts of this incident are brought to light.

"Police forces in the region will continue to liaise with their local communities, including the Jewish community, and will put in place any necessary measures to provide reassurance to them.

“There is no reason to think Blackburn is at any greater risk than anywhere else, and I want to reassure people that we have very clear risk assessments and emergency plans in place, which are reviewed regularly."

“I would urge anyone who has any concerns to report anything that might be linked to terrorism to police.

“You are the eyes and ears of our communities and early intervention can and will prevent anything like this from happening ever again.”

Anyone with information or concerns should contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.