Police Investigate Hate Crime After Muslim Gravestones Vandalized in UK Cemetery

IQNA – Hate crime investigations has been launched after Muslim gravestones in Burnley Cemetery were vandalized with what appears to be white paint.

Footage from the Muslim section of the cemetery was taken on Monday, prompting a joint statement from Burnley's council leader and police, Upday News reported on Tuesday.

Lancashire Constabulary reported that an investigation began after police were called at 4:15 PM on Monday.

They confirmed that the incident is being treated as a hate crime.

"We do not tolerate hate of any form, and we will do everything in our power to identify the offenders and take the appropriate action," the statement read.

Council Leader Afrasiab Anwar MBE condemned the act and stated that the council is working with police to identify the perpetrators.

In response to the incident, CCTV footage is being reviewed, and police presence will be increased. The graves will be cleaned by a specialist, and affected families are being contacted, according to the report.

The vandalism comes amid far-right protests across the United Kingdom that, according to a British minister, has been fueled by Islamophobia.

Source: Agencies