Alarmed by a string of Islamophobic attacks that increased after the recent failed terrorist plots, British Muslims are recruiting security guards and installing CCTV cameras to protect their mosques. The new tendency gained further urgency following an increase in attacks targeting Muslims and their places of worship. A 58-year-old imam was punched several times in the face by a visitor to the Regents Park mosque, known as the Islamic Cultural Centre, in Central London. The attacker, Ryan Donegan, has been charged with committing grievous bodily harm and with assaulting a police officer. Further, an arson attack targeted a mosque in Bradford. Police officials in Scotland have also reported an increase in racial crimes against Muslims. After the recent increase in incidents involving vandalism of mosques and physical attacks, security arrangements are being beefed up in mosques across Britain. Other mosques chose enlisting volunteers to “keep an eye on things” during prayers. Sheikh Abdulkadir Barkatulla of a mosque in North London said a centre manager has already been appointed as a caretaker who could also defend physically if needed.
UK MUSLIMS PRAY UNDER GUARD
Alarmed by a string of Islamophobic attacks that increased after the recent failed terrorist plots, British Muslims are recruiting security guards and installing CCTV cameras to protect their mosques. The new tendency gained further urgency following an increase in attacks targeting Muslims and their places of worship.
