A 31-YEAR-OLD man was arrested yesterday on suspicion of murder following the death of a former imam found with serious head injuries in a playground.

Jalal Uddin was found critically injured in a children’s play area on South Street in the Wardleworth area of Rochdale on Thursday night.

Locals say the 56-year-old had been to evening prayers at a mosque before visiting a friend for dinner.

It is believed he was taking a short cut through the playground on his way home.

Police and paramedics were called around 9pm after a member of the public found him. He was taken to hospital but died shortly after from his injuries.

Greater Manchester Police have launched a major investigation.

Ramadhan Foundation head Mohammed Shafiq said: “We would urge all local mosques in Rochdale to consider emergency security precautions and facilities to help local people return home safely from the mosque.”