BERLIN: A German court has ruled that Muslims who patrolled a city’s streets as “Shariah police” did not break the law and will not be prosecuted, BBC reported.

Nine were arrested in September 2014 after patrolling streets in Wuppertal, western Germany. They wore bright orange jackets with the words “Shariah police.” They told passers-by not to frequent discos, casinos or bars.

The court said they had not violated laws on uniforms and public gatherings.

Prosecutors have now lodged an appeal.

The group’s appearance at night in Wuppertal triggered sharp criticism in Germany. A film of their “patrol” appeared on YouTube — but the action was condemned by the Central Council of Muslims in Germany, who said it was “harmful to Muslims.”

The group also carried notices proclaiming in English a “Shariah Controlled Zone.” The notices demanded outlawing alcohol, drugs, gambling, music and concerts, pornography and prostitution.

Activists in the anti-Islam Pegida movement — campaigning to stop immigration to Germany — demonstrated in Wuppertal last year. They have staged regular anti-Muslim marches nationwide.