HAMPSHIRE’S Muslim community has condemned the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris that left more than 120 people dead.

An international manhunt is continuing for a suspect linked to the attacks and the UK is preparing to recruit nearly 2,000 more spies to counter the threat from the Islamic State, which has claimed responsibility for the atrocities.

Police are tracking down Salah Abdeslam, 26, who rented a car used to carry gunmen to the Bataclan music venue in Paris which became the scene of a massacre.

Muslim leaders from across the county have issued a joint statement outlining their disgust at the “outrageous” attacks in Paris and bombing in Beirut, which left more than 40 dead.

The statement says: “There is absolutely no justification for such carnage whatsoever.

“As Muslims we are indeed immensely hurt by such violence. Any claim of committing acts of violence in the name of any faith is illegitimate.

“Let it be known that such brutality and cold-blooded murder is barbaric, abominable and is definitely contradicting the pristine teachings of religion of Islam.

“One of the fundamental values of Islam is peace.”

The statement is signed by Sheikh Fazle Abbas Datoo, Imam of Al Mahdi Centre, Wessex Jamaat Community, Mufti Liakoth Ali, Imam of Portsmouth Muslim Academy, Mujahid Miah, chairman of Jamia Mosque in Portsmouth, Mohammed Shamas Ahme,, chairman of Central Mosque in Portsmouth, and Ali Ibrahimi, chairman of Portsmouth Afghan Community.

It comes after Hampshire’s leaders united in defiance against the attacks with MPs including Royston Smith, Mims Davies and Suella Fernandes speaking of their horror.

The leaders say: “We urge all communities to stand together to oppose this despicable scenario with love and compassion.

“Let us continue to work towards establishing peace and harmony in the community and defy the terrorists whose only aim is to divide us.

“Let us all, as people of faiths and none, stand form with compassion and solidarity.”