The Greater Manchester Police force was honoured by the Muslim community at a fundraising dinner in Manchester, UK, in recognition of their commitment to serving and protecting the people of the city.
Superintendent Simon Garvey accepted a commemorative plaque on behalf of the family of DC Stephen Oake – killed last month whilst making an arrest in the city.
The dinner was held on the 16th February 2003, in aid of Islamic Relief’s orphan welfare projects.
Superintendent Simon Garvey highlighted the grave problems of drug abuse and related crime facing Manchester
Dr Hany El Banna, founder and President of Islamic Relief, presented the gift and explained that the Muslim community in Manchester and Britain appreciated the hard and often thankless work of the police.
“Muslims recognise the bravery of our officers who courageously face life threatening situations as a matter of course,” he said.
Dr Hany went on to speak of the great sacrifice made by DC Oake – a devout Christian. “The Muslim community shares the sorrow of the family,” he said, “but also feels enormous pride at DC Oake’s dedication to duty.”
The Greater Manchester Police were co-sponsors of the event, which raised £10,000. Superintendent Garvey took the opportunity to present a short talk about drug awareness. He highlighted the grave problems of drug abuse and related crime facing Manchester, and the need for citizens of all communities to come forward with information to help the police in their work.
The Greater Manchester Police were co-sponsors of the event, which raised £10,000 Following the presentation Superintendent Garvey and his colleagues expressed their appreciation of Islamic Relief’s gift, saying how moved they were by the gesture.
The event featured the music of ‘Shaam’ an Islamic nasheed group, and was followed by an auction of Islamic art. It is hoped that many more events like this will be held in the future.