Islamic radical criticizes 'X Factor'

LONDON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- British anti-terror police have spoken to "The X Factor" producers about increasing security after an Islamic radical claimed the TV talent show is anti-Muslim.

The Sun reported Omar Bakri criticized the show for its plans to release the song "Hero" to raise money for wounded British troops. The newspaper also said the Syrian-born cleric condemned Muslims who distribute or wear "Help For Heroes" wristbands.

"Some Muslims in Birmingham are wearing the armbands in support of British troops in Afghanistan. This is a form of muadaat (hatred) of the kuffar (non-believers) against the Muslims ... and it has dangerous implications," Bakri, who is in Lebanon, told followers in a recording posted on a Muslim Web site. "Some people may find excuses for those people -- ignorance and so on. If after three days, if they continue, you are barred from these people and their deeds. Even watching the show -- those people are committing a form, a type, of muadaat. And that action is a form of kufr (non-belief.)"

"Producers have spoken to CID and anti-terrorism officers about the potential threat level -- it's being taken very seriously," a show source told The Sun.

A Scotland Yard spokesman confirmed the division knows about the recording and said "it will be assessed to see if any offenses have been committed."