School and mosques vandalised with anti-Muslim graffiti in 'shocking hate crime'
School and mosques vandalised with anti-Muslim graffiti in 'shocking hate crime'
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Anti-Muslim graffiti has been found daubed on seven London buildings this month, including mosques, community centres and a primary school. The Metropolitan Police said it is investigating "several incidents of criminal damage" and is treating them as "shocking" hate crimes.
They took place between Monday 6 January and Thursday 23 January and the force is looking into whether they are linked, including examining CCTV footage. The incidents are reported to have been fuelled by a Telegram hate group, which was offering £100 to people who committed acts of vandalism. The Met said its inquiries are continuing.
The force has stepped up reassurance patrols in the affected areas and is in contact with local faith leaders. Here are the sites that were targeted and when:. • West Norwood Mosque, SE27, on Monday 6 January. • South Norwood Islamic Community Centre, Croydon, SE25, on Monday 6 January.
• Thornton Heath Islamic Centre, CR7, on Thursday 16 January. • Stratford mosque, Newham, E15, on Thursday 23 January. • Leyton Jamia Masjid, E10, on Thursday 23 January. • Albirr Foundation mosque, E10, on Thursday 23 January. • Noor Ul Islam Primary School, E10, on Saturday 25 January.
Read more from Sky News:Fresh warnings for strong winds and flooding across UKThree teenagers die after car hits tree. 'Hate has no place on our streets'. Worshippers at the Stratford mosque and Leyton Jamia Masjid contacted Sky News saying their buildings had been vandalised with anti-Islamic graffiti.