Apparent Islamophobic attack on Islamic Center in London triggers outrage

Residents saw the front door smashed, donation boxes forced open and other items damaged.

LONDON – A well-known Islamic cultural center in west London reported that an apparent Islamophobic attack was carried out on its property on the night of September 26.

Residents saw the front door smashed, donation boxes forced open and other items damaged.

The center, known as Al-Falah Institute, is predominantly attended by women.

Community sources stated that copies of the Quran were collected in a room and set on fire, causing considerable distress in the community.

Mariam Tariq, a trustee and chairwoman of the institute, expressed her deep sorrow over the desecration of the holy scriptures.

Local MP John McDonnell called the incident a “shameful criminal act of vandalism”

He emphasized harmony within the multicultural community and assured that such an incident would not defeat their spirit.

The Metropolitan Police currently believe the fire to be arson and linked to the earlier burglary.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed solidarity with the Al-Falah Institute community and emphasized London’s diverse strength.

Founded in 2011, the center was more than just a place of prayer. It offered learning opportunities, community meetings and various courses, including English and mathematics.

The Muslim Council of Britain expressed dismay at the attack and pointed to the center’s 12-year history as a beacon of community.

The incident adds to growing concerns about anti-Muslim sentiment in Britain.

Recent Home Office data suggests that anti-Muslim hate crimes are on the rise, accounting for more than a third of all religiously motivated hate crimes between 2022and 2023.

A Muslim Census report shows that 35% of mosques in the UK experience at least one attack each year.