By The Nexus Gazette.
12th August, 2024.
In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the Newtownards community, a man has been arrested in connection with an attack on a local mosque in County Down. The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, involved a petrol bomb being thrown at the mosque on Greenwell Street, accompanied by offensive graffiti sprayed on its walls.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that the suspect, a 42-year-old man, was detained on Sunday following extensive searches at two properties within the town. The individual has been arrested on suspicion of several serious offences, including attempted arson, possession of a petrol bomb, and attempted intimidation. The swift arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation, which has drawn considerable attention from both local and national authorities.
The attack has left the local Muslim community in Newtownards deeply unsettled. Abdul Rob, the founder of the Islamic centre located within the mosque, expressed his concern over the incident, stating, “This attack has made us nervous, but we will not be driven out of our community. This mosque is not just a place of worship but a pillar of support for many in our community.”
Rob’s sentiments were echoed by other community leaders who have condemned the attack and called for unity in the face of such hate-driven acts. The mosque has long been a cornerstone of the local Muslim community, providing not just spiritual guidance but also a space for community engagement and support.
The PSNI has been actively investigating the incident, treating it as a hate crime. The arrest of the 42-year-old suspect is seen as a critical step in ensuring justice is served. The police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital in preventing future incidents of this nature.
A PSNI spokesperson stated, “We are committed to ensuring that those responsible for this despicable act are brought to justice. Hate crimes have no place in our society, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect all communities.”
This attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by minority communities across the region. The targeting of a place of worship has sparked broader discussions about the need for tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect within society. Local authorities and community leaders have called for solidarity, urging people to stand together against all forms of hatred and violence.
While the arrest of the suspect has brought some relief to the Newtownards community, the incident underscores the importance of continued vigilance and support for minority communities. The mosque attack is a troubling example of the work that still needs to be done to foster a society where all individuals can live without fear of violence or intimidation.
Resources:
1.https://www.rte.ie/news/2024/0812/1464517-psni-arrest-down/
3.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cj9l0k3zkr0o
4.https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj9l0k3zkr0o
5.https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/man-arrested-after-attack-on-mosque-in-co-down-b1175978.html