Asad Shah death: Bradford man says he killed Glasgow shopkeeper for 'disrespecting' Islam

A Bradford man accused of the religiously motivated murder of popular Glasgow shopkeeper Asad Shah says he did it because Shah 'disrespected' Islam by claiming to be 'a prophet.' Tanweer Ahmed says the killing had nothing to do with Christianity and he respected Jesus.

Ahmed, 32, appeared in private court for the second time before Sheriff Brian Adair and released a statement through his solicitor John Rafferty. In it he sought to explain the motivation behind his alleged actions. He is accused of travelling by Uber cab from Yorkshire to Glasgow to murder Shah, 40, who had posted messages on Facebook in which he spoke of his love for the whole community and wished everyone a Happy Easter. Four hours later he was dead.

Outside court Rafferty read out Ahmed's bizarre statement which said: "Asad Shah disrespected the messenger of Islam the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. Mr Shah claimed to be a Prophet. When 1400 years ago the Prophet of Islam Muhammad peace be upon him has clearly said that 'I am the final messenger of Allah there is no more profits or messengers from God Allah after me. I am leaving you the final Quran. There is no changes. It is the final book of Allah and this is the final completion of Islam'.

The rambling statement continued: "I wish to make it clear that the incident was nothing at all to do with Christianity or any other religious beliefs even although I am a follower of the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him I also love and respect Jesus Christ."

Shah, an Ahmadi Muslim, was stabbed to death outside the Glasgow newsagent he ran on 24 March. His death shocked the community who came together in a vigil to remember him and £110,000 has been raised to support his family. In court Ahmed made no plea. He was remanded in custody and will appear in High Court to face the murder charge at an unspecified date.