Ahmed J Versi
Additional reporting: Elham Asaad Buaras
A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged following a violent act of vandalism at the Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre, where a rock was hurled through a window and paint was splattered on the building while worshippers were inside.
The attack, which has been classified as a hate crime by Police Scotland, took place on March 15 in two separate incidents. First, paint was thrown across the mosque’s door and pavement in the evening. Then, just hours later, during prayers, a rock smashed through a window, landing in the women’s section of the mosque.
Naveed Mohammed, Chair of Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre, expressed disbelief over the attack. “I’m just shocked because we’ve never had anything like that before. I’ve been in Aberdeen for 18 years, and nothing’s really ever happened to the masjids. This is the first time, so we’re all a bit surprised and shocked,” he told The Muslim News.
While no one was physically harmed, the attack left worshippers shaken. Mohammed recalled the moment the window was shattered, “Luckily, no one was anywhere near the window, but it was quite late at night, and the brick went through the sisters’ section. Had anyone been sitting there, it could have been much worse.”
Police Scotland swiftly launched an investigation, treating the incident as a hate crime. A spokesperson confirmed, “Following reports of vandalism at a mosque in Spital, Aberdeen, officers have arrested and charged a 17-year-old male. The incident occurred on Saturday, March 15, and is being treated as a hate crime. The individual has been released on an undertaking and will appear in court at a later date.”
Despite the distressing nature of the attack, the response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive. Worshippers and neighbours joined together to clean up the damage.
In a joint statement, the Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre expressed deep gratitude:
“Following these attacks, kind neighbours and worshippers came together to clean up the mess, while others sent messages of support. We are incredibly grateful to our neighbours and well-wishers during these difficult times.”
Mohammed echoed this sentiment, praising the solidarity shown, “When we started washing the paint down, some of the local community members came out and helped. It was really nice to see that support. We want to extend a big thank you to the local community for coming out, helping, and showing solidarity.”
In response to the attack, mosques across Aberdeen are tightening security. Mohammed confirmed that measures are being put in place in consultation with authorities:
“We’ve spoken to the other mosques in Aberdeen, and we’ve all decided to increase security just in case. We weren’t sure if this was an individual act or something more coordinated, so we’re taking extra precautions.”
Police Scotland has assured the Muslim community that additional patrols will be conducted during prayer times and other busy periods to ensure safety.
With Ramadan underway, mosque leaders have urged worshippers to remain vigilant but not fearful. “We encourage all attendees to stay vigilant but not be alarmed. Continue your prayers and efforts to make the most of this blessed month.”
This shocking act of vandalism has been met with widespread condemnation, but the resilience and unity of Aberdeen’s community continue to shine through. As investigations progress, local authorities remain committed to ensuring that places of worship are safe and protected for all.
Photo: The aftermath of the paint attack on Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre on March 15, as locals assist with the cleanup efforts. (Credit: Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre)
