Missing Bangladeshi born UK family safe with IS

Risingbd Desk: A Bangladeshi born UK family of 12 who went missing have joined so-called Islamic State and are "safer than ever", according to a statement said to be on their behalf.

The statement, purportedly sent by a member of IS, said it was "outrageous" to suggest the family had been kidnapped and forced to join the group.

It called on all Muslims to join them and "hasten to the obedience of Allah".

The family from Luton has not been seen since 17 May and includes three children aged between one and 11.

Police have previously said they may have travelled to Syria.

Media has not been able to independently verify if the statement, which includes two photos purportedly of family member Muhammed Abdul Mannan, is genuine.

The statement, passed to the media by a Briton fighting with IS, said the family had arrived in a land that was "free from corruption and oppression" and had not been "commanded" to join by a single person but by the "Khalifah of the Muslims".

It said: "We say to those that are concerned for our safety to put your hearts at rest for we feel safer than we have ever felt before.

"We call all Muslims to rush to the command of your Khalif. Race to your state. Race to what will give you honour in this life and the hereafter."

The Islamic State group has seized large swathes of Iraq and Syria since last June, becoming notorious for its brutality, including mass killings, abductions and beheadings.

On 29 June 2014 it announced the formation of a caliphate - a state governed in accordance with Islamic law or Sharia, by God`s deputy on Earth, or caliph.

Source: agencies

risingbd/Dhaka/July 4, 2015/Nasim