Hate Incident at California Islamic Center Being Investigated by Police
The center says two people posted flyers on their property.
The Center’s Director of Public and Interfaith Relations, Imam Taha Hassane — their faith leader — said he feels as if they are being targeted because of the flyers. He also expressed that the flyers are “hurtful.”
“Can you explain how you interpret this?” FOX 5 asked Hassane.
“Obviously, this is an act done by two individuals,” Hassane said. “Trying to intimidate the community, trying to spread this hatred, and trying to tell the society we’re responsible for this community.”
The Islamic Center of San Diego is trying to figure out who posted more than 50 flyers on trees and fencing outside their Clairemont Center.
Hassane said surveillance footage caught two people hanging the flyers Wednesday night. The flyers have “KIDNAPPED” written on top, photos of people, and words claiming the people are from Israel and taken by Hamas.
The Imam said they also noticed three blue towels tied to their fence.
“They are trying to link the entire community — American Muslim community — …, with whatever is going on over there (the Middle East).” Hassane said.
Imam Taha reported the incident to the police, who are investigating this as a hate incident. Police said their detectives gather evidence, and interview witnesses to determine whether a hate crime has occurred under the law.
“Somebody putting flyers up there, may need to be some additional component of vandalisms or permanent damage to qualify under the law,” said Lt. Adam Sharki, a public information officer with the San Diego Police Department.
“The next question is whether or not charges can be brought,” Sharki added.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations of San Diego (CAIR-SD) works with the Islamic Center as an advocate for the Muslim community.
In a statement, CAIR-SD Executive Director Tazheen Nizam said:
“We are extremely alarmed by these actions. These actions create a sense of fear and concern amongst mosque attendees and the neighboring community. Parents bringing their kids to the Islamic School attached to the mosque are fearful. Our Muslim brothers and sisters deserve to feel safe and welcome in their places of worship. Especially at a time of heightened sensitivity, an action like this sends a clear message of instilling hate and fear.”
Source: fox5sandiego.com
