The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) has reported that Imam Sheikh Ibrahim of the BCMA Mosque in Canada’s Victoria was attacked in what it described as an Islamophobic incident, expressing deep concern over the matter.
In a statement released on Saturday, the NCCM said that Sheikh Ibrahim was sitting in his car after evening prayers at the mosque on Thursday last when an unidentified individual forcibly opened the vehicle's door and assaulted him. During the attack, the assailant allegedly used anti-Muslim slurs and repeatedly shouted, “Go back to your country”.
Strongly condemning the attack, the NCCM said, “Targeting and assaulting a respected religious leader in this manner is completely unacceptable. This incident is a stark reminder of the disturbing reality of growing Islamophobia in our society.”
The organisation further stated that it could no longer remain silent as such incidents continue to occur. “This is a serious social problem that requires a united response from all segments of society,” it said.
The NCCM also called on political and community leaders across Canada to publicly denounce anti-Muslim violence and take visible and effective measures to prevent such hate-motivated crimes.
Law enforcement authorities were urged to conduct a full and impartial investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
However, the statement did not provide details regarding Imam Sheikh Ibrahim’s physical condition, nor did it indicate whether any formal charges had been filed against the alleged attacker.
