A 17-year-old male faces charges after a hate crime incident at a local mosque.
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A troubling incident occurred at the Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre (AMIC) on Saturday evening, when a stone was thrown through the window of the mosque while worshippers were present. This act of vandalism, which has been classified as a hate crime by local authorities, has raised significant concerns within the community.
Details of the incident
The attack took place during a time of prayer, highlighting the severity and recklessness of the act. Prior to the stone-throwing, paint was also splattered on the mosque’s entrance, indicating a deliberate attempt to deface the property.
In response to the incident, a 17-year-old male has been arrested and charged, with the court date yet to be determined. Police Scotland is actively investigating the matter and has urged anyone with information to come forward.
Community response and support
In the wake of the vandalism, the local community has shown remarkable solidarity. Neighbors and worshippers banded together late Saturday night to clean up the damage, demonstrating the strength of community ties in the face of adversity. AMIC expressed gratitude towards those who offered assistance, stating, “We are very grateful to our neighbors and well-wishers in these difficult times.” This collective effort underscores the importance of unity and support during challenging moments.
Police investigation and security measures
Police Scotland has classified the incident as a hate crime, emphasizing the need for vigilance and community safety. A spokesperson for the police confirmed that the arrested individual has been released on an undertaking and will appear in court at a later date. In light of these events, AMIC has announced that all mosques in Aberdeen will be implementing additional security measures. Police will increase patrols around these places of worship during prayer times and other busy periods to ensure the safety of worshippers.
The mosque officials have condemned the vandalism as “wilful and despicable,” and they are working closely with law enforcement to address the situation. The community’s response to the attacks reflects a commitment to standing against hate and supporting one another, reinforcing the idea that such acts will not be tolerated.
