In London, a fire occurred in the largest mosque of Western Europe

In the largest mosque in the south of London, Baitul-Futuh, a fire broke out on Saturday. The mosque, containing more than 10 thousand prayers, is considered one of the largest in Western Europe. There is no information about intentional arson, although this version is discussed in the media.

According to the London Fire Brigade, about half of the first floor of the building were covered with fire, the fire also entered the second floor. A pillar of thick smoke rose above the building, the Russian Air Force service reports.

Sky News reports that they promptly evacuated all the worshipers from the building. One person who was poisoned by smoke is hospitalized.

In extinguishing, 10 fire engines and about 70 people were involved.

Firefighters reported that the extinguishing would “take some time” due to the fact that the building with high ceilings and large volumetric rooms is on fire. Firefighters water the roof of the mosque with water to cool it and prevent the fire, the firefighters commander Phil Morton said.

The reasons for the fire are still unknown. At the same time, the media mention the possibility of arson, although officials refuse to put forward versions to the first results of the investigation.

The mosque was erected in 2003. Construction cost about 15 million pounds. "Baitul-Futuh" holds over 10 thousand prayers.