Rochdale iman 'murder': Son of Jalal Uddin pays tribute to 'a selfless man of principle'

Two men have been arrested in connection with the 64-year-old's death

Jalal Uddin, 64, died after being found with head injuries in a children's hospital (Manchester Evening News)

The son of an imam who was killed in a Rochdale has made tribute to his father saying he was a "loved and integral part of the community".

Jalal Uddin was found in a park on Thursday with severe head injuries and died later in hospital.

A 21-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody for questioning.

His son released a statement through Greater Manchester Police saying: "Jalal Uddin was a loved and integral part of the community. He was a soft spoken, gentle soul who wouldn't hesitate to help those in need.

"He was a simple man, but respected by all for his kind and caring nature".

Mr Uddin’s son, who did not wished to be named, said his father was "a selfless man of principle, who always strived to do the right thing".

He said the 64-year-old was the main provider for his family in his native Bangladesh and he had "dedicated his life" to his family’s wellbeing.

Mr Uddin was the former imam of the Jalalia Jaame Mosque (Michael Ely/Creative Commons)

He called the events leading up to his death “horrific” and “inhumane” and said “nobody should have to go through what Jalal did”.

He said: “We hope his soul will be at rest in the knowledge that those who loved him, really cherished him”.

It comes as a fundraising page, set up by a former pupil and close friend of Mr Uddin, raised more than £12,000 in just three days to pay for his funeral costs.

Detective Chief Inspector Terry Crompton of GMP’s Serious Crime Division said: “Our investigation is continuing at a quick pace and we have carried out a significant number of enquiries.”

Anyone with any information should contact the GMP’s Major Incident Team on 01618 564711 or the independent Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.