Missing Bangladeshi UK family 'safer than ever with Islamic State'

A UK family of 12 who went missing have joined so-called Islamic State and are "safer than ever", according to a statement said to be on their behalf.

The statement, purportedly sent by a member of IS, said it was "outrageous" to suggest the family had been kidnapped and forced to join the group.

It called on all Muslims to join them and "hasten to the obedience of Allah".

The family from Luton has not been seen since 17 May and includes three children aged between one and 11.

Police have previously said they may have travelled to Syria.

The BBC has not been able to independently verify if the statement, which includes two photos purportedly of family member Muhammed Abdul Mannan, is genuine.

The missing family is:

Muhammed Abdul Mannan, 75, and his wife Minera Khatun, 53
Their daughter Rajia Khanom, 21, and sons Mohammed Zayd Hussain, 25, Mohammed Toufique Hussain, 19, Mohammed Abil Kashem Saker, 31, and his wife Sheida Khanam, 27
Mohammed Saleh Hussain, 26, and his wife Roshanara Begum, 24, along with three children, aged between one and 11