Masked men attack imam outside Bronx mosque
Masked men attacked a 22-year-old imam outside a mosque in Bronx, New York, on Sunday night just before he was about to lead prayers.
Imam Omar Faruqe says three men in ski masks stopped him near Bangla Bazar Jame Masjid and showed him a photo, asking questions.
When he denied knowing anything, they pushed him toward a car.
Mosque treasurer Iqbal Hussain rushed to help, fearing the attackers might abduct the imam.
A scuffle broke out and the men put Faruqe in a headlock and tried dragging him into their car.
The situation turned chaotic as worshippers chased the vehicle.
Police suspect the imam may have been mistaken for someone else.
No arrests have yet been made.
However, police are investigating the assault and monitoring the area for safety.
Despite the incident, the mosque remains open and filled with worshippers during Ramadan’s last days this week.
Faruqe says he feels safe within his community and is thankful for their support.