Yes, a 'Jihadist' flag really did fly in east London. But now it's gone

A black flag with Arabic writing, bearing resemblance to those used by Jihadists in Iraq and Syria, was seen flying above the Will Crooks Estate in Poplar, east London, last night.

A spokesperson for Tower Hamlets council confirmed to i100 that it had indeed been flown but said that when staff went to investigate this morning it had been removed by nun and local activist Sister Christine Frost.

The flag was removed following concerns that it could cause community tension.

Tower Hamlets welcomes the removal of this flag. We have consistently demonstrated that there is no place for hate in Tower Hamlets, whatever form it takes.

We take decisive action to ensure people’s actions do not affect the strong community cohesion that underpins Tower Hamlets.

• Council statement

The council added that they will remove any other unauthorised flags seen on public space under their jurisdiction.

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