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Suffolk Police Federation

Fed member emphasises ‘unity and inclusivity’ for Ramadan and beyond

1 April 2026

After the conclusion of Ramadan, Federation member PC Mo Motlib’s attention soon turned to marking Eid and to pushing forward with the Association of Muslim Police (AMP) across the Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies.
 
Mo, who is vice-chair of the AMP within both forces, says the organisation is now looking to build on the success of its recent Iftar commemoration - the evening meal for those observing Ramadan to break their daily fast at sunset - held at the Visitors’ Centre next to Landmark House.
 
Among the guests at the event were Suffolk’s Chief Constable Rachel Kearton and Deputy Chief Constable Dan Vajzovic, who both also fasted for the day in solidarity with their Muslim officers and staff.
 
And Mo believes that the attendance of senior leaders is the type of valuable visibility the AMP can build on to further promote its messages of ‘unity and inclusivity’.
 
“Now more than ever, we want to continue breaking down barriers and help build greater understanding, so people can see that Islam is a welcoming and inclusive faith,” he said.
 
“In the world’s current climate, focusing on unity and understanding is vitally important, rather than being drawn into division.
 
“But beyond that, it’s always positive to come together and recognise the shared values we have as colleagues, so we want to keep providing that platform. Events like this also give people a chance to step away from the pressures and demands of our job, which is always a plus.”
 
Having been part of the Force for six years and currently working in its County Partnership and Prevention Hub (CPPH) as an anti-social behaviour (ASB) officer, Mo decided to expand his professional duties by joining the AMP in 2023.
 
He continued: “The group has been around for a while now as a branch of the National Association of Muslim Police, and I wanted to get involved with the representation of Muslim officers and staff, as well as helping guide the organisation on how it can better support us during periods like Ramadan.
 
“It’s not just about fasting - anyone can fast from sunrise to sunset, but it’s about doing so with a real sense of purpose and devotion to your faith.
 
“Obviously, there is a balance you must get right as a police officer, in terms of having enough operational energy. I remember my first couple of Ramadans in the Force were in the summer, which was difficult with warm weather and longer days, but it was a challenge I embraced, and now I rarely ever struggle with it.”
 
Mo also spoke about celebrating Eid, one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar, marking the end of Ramadan.
 
The 33-year-old says he began the day, on Friday 19 March, by attending a service at his local mosque with his son.
 
The pair marked the occasion by wearing matching Emirati thobes - ankle-length, long-sleeved robes traditionally worn by Muslim men, with varying styles across different countries.
 
“Now I’m a dad, one of the best things about Eid is being able to share it with my son and daughter. It’s similar to Christmas Day in many ways - after mosque and prayer, there are presents, new clothes, entertainment, and of course, plenty of food,” he said.
 
“It’s nice to return to a sense of normality following a period of focus and discipline. Some people really miss Ramadan afterwards because they’ve built a strong routine, while others find the transition easier.
 
“I find that instead of having that same intensity in your values, you spread them out across the rest of the year, which can be just as rewarding.
 
“Just like other festivals and celebrations, Ramadan will be back around before you know it, and I just hope once again we’ll have the honour of being surrounded by so many understanding colleagues in policing, because it really does mean a lot.”
 

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April 2026
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