The leader of Oldham Council has been targeted in a "cowardly" and "appalling" firebomb attack.
Arooj Shah, who has been leading the local authority since the local elections in May, had her car firebombed in a shocking, targeted attack in the early hours of this morning, July 13.
Emergency services rushed to Greengate Street, Oldham, just before 1.30am after hearing the vehicle had been set on fire.
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Fortunately, no one was injured in the horrifying incident. A number of officials have since spoken out in support of Coun Shah.
Howard Sykes, leader of the Liberal Democrats at the council, called 'for all decent people to stand up for the values of this country'.
In a statement issued on behalf of the party, he said: "This attack is appalling. It is a frightening attack on an individual, but it is also demonstrates the threat to people in public life and stops decent people from being involved in it.
"This cannot be allowed to continue, and not only must we stop this criminal attack, but also the abusive approach that has been too much of the politics in Oldham recently, and the UK, in recent years.
"Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, with respect, and with fairness. Abuse and “dog-whistle” politics can have no part in our society.
"This is a time when we must stand together. If you are a decent, fair-minded person, you must stand up against this appalling attack, and defend the values of our country – honesty, decency and fairness."
Jim McMahon also gave his support to Coun Shah, who replaced previous council leader Sean Fielding after he lost his seat in the May local elections.
The MP for Oldham West and Royton said: ""My solidarity with Coun Arooj Shah who has been targeted in such a cowardly way.
"The full weight of the law must be seen to bring those accountable to book.
"As this is an ongoing investigation I am limited to what I can say publicly, other than to offer my support and thoughts to Arooj and her family."
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they were investigating the incident, and trying to find those responsible for the attack.
A spokesperson for the force said: "Police were called just before 1:30am on Tuesday 13 July to reports of a vehicle on fire on Greengate Street in Oldham.
"Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service attended along with police, and it was established that the vehicle was deliberately ignited, also causing slight damage to a neighbouring property.
"The fire was extinguished, no-one was injured, and officers are investigating the circumstances."
Information can be passed to the police via 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.
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