Seven mosques and schools vandalised with Islamophobic graffiti in London
Seven mosques and schools vandalised with Islamophobic graffiti in London
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Anti-Muslim graffiti has been daubed on seven London buildings this month, including mosques, schools and community centres. Police said they were treating the incidents, which occurred between January 6 and January 23 at locations in east and south London, as hate crimes.
Among the seven locations affected were Stratford mosque and Leyton Jamia Masjid, both in east London. Each of the locations were hit with Islamophobic messages. Officers said they were investigating whether the incidents are linked by scanning CCTV amid reports they were being fuelled by an anti-Muslim group online offering £100 for the graffiti attacks.
No arrests have yet been made. Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell, who is in charge of policing London this weekend, said: “We understand that Muslim communities will be feeling particularly concerned for their safety following this series of shocking hate crimes.
“Hate has no place on our streets, and tackling it is at the centre of our efforts to make Londoners from all backgrounds and communities feel safe. “Our local officers will continue to work with community leaders and ensure that a thorough investigation is being conducted”.
Stratford Islamic Association, one of the mosques targeted, said it was heartened by the outpouring of support from the local community after the vandalism. A spokesperson told Sky News: “Those responsible for this act of hate have shamed only themselves.
