Seven mosques, schools, and community centers across London were vandalized with Islamophobic graffiti in January, prompting police to treat the incidents as hate crimes.
The attacks, which took place between January 6 and January 23, targeted locations in east and south London, including Stratford Mosque, Leyton Jamia Masjid, and Noor Ul Islam Primary School.
According to police, CCTV footage is being reviewed as part of an investigation into whether these incidents are connected. Reports suggest the acts may have been incited by an online anti-Muslim group offering financial rewards for such attacks. So far, no arrests have been made.
Police and community leaders respond
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell, overseeing policing in London, condemned the incidents, stating, “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 central to our efforts to ensure all Londoners feel safe.”
He added that local officers are collaborating with community leaders to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted.
The Stratford Islamic Association, one of the vandalized sites, expressed gratitude for the support it has received from the community. A spokesperson said, “Those responsible for this act of hate have shamed only themselves. This is not an act of faith – it’s an act of cowardice. They will not intimidate us. Together, as a united community, we will stand strong.”
Local government condemnation
Newham Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz also condemned the attacks, describing the graffiti as deeply troubling. “I understand this hate crime will have made many members of our valued faith communities anxious and concerned,” she said. “Islamophobia will not be tolerated in our borough, and there is no place for hate in Newham.”
Timeline of incidents
The locations targeted with Islamophobic graffiti are as follows:
January 6, 2025: West Norwood Mosque, SE27
January 6, 2025: South Norwood Islamic Community Centre, SE25 5JJ
January 16, 2025: Thornton Heath Islamic Centre, CR7
January 23, 2025: Stratford Mosque, E15
January 23, 2025: Leyton Jamia Masjid, E10
January 23, 2025: Al-Birr Mosque, E10
January 25, 2025: Noor Ul Islam Primary School, E10
The series of attacks highlights a concerning rise in hate crimes targeting Muslim communities. Authorities and local leaders are urging vigilance and unity in the face of such challenges. Photo by Villy Fink Isaksen, Wikimedia commons.