MANCHESTER – A leading British Muslim charity has launched an appeal to raise money for the victims of Manchester attack and their families, sharing their thoughts and prayers with those affected by the horrendous attack.

“As a Muslim, as a Mancunian and as a father, I want the victims and their families of Monday night’s attack to know that my prayers, the prayers of everyone at Human Appeal and the prayers of Manchester’s Muslim community, are with them,” Othman Moqbel, Human Appeal’s chief executive, said on the charity’s website.

“Although the details are currently unclear, this appears to be a despicable and abhorrent attack targeting innocent members of our community.”

Twenty-two people, including children, have been killed and 59 injured in a suicide attack at Manchester Arena at the end of a concert by US singer Ariana Grande.

Police said the lone male attacker, who died in the blast, detonated an improvised explosive device.

Human Appeal is a Muslim-faith based humanitarian aid charity based in Greater Manchester.

Muslims for Manchester was launched on Tuesday morning by the charity.

“Manchester’s Muslim community stands united with everyone in the city … Once again my prayers and love go to the victims, their families and this great city,” Moqbel said.