Outrage and concern has been sparked after seven London mosques have been targeted with Islamophobic graffiti over a month in a campaign of hate which could all be linked.
Graffiti such as “Stop Islam,” “Remigration,” as well as references to paedophilia and Christian iconography were spray painted onto the masajid.
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 affected mosques are:
• 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
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• 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
A statement from Stratford Islamic Association to Sky News said: “Our mosque has been part of this community since 1993, and in all that time, we’ve only known kindness and respect from our neighbours.
“We are proud to be an integral part of this community, and today, we’ve been deeply moved by the overwhelming support from people of all backgrounds.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the development in a post on X.
“There is no tolerance for hate in our city and I have been made aware of a series of similar incidents in recent days and weeks in our city. I remain in close contact with the Met Police as they continue their investigations and increase patrols.”
No arrests have been made but the Met’s Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell 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.”
Police are urging anyone with information about the incidents to contact them on 101.
