‘Christchurch 2.0' threat to Sydney mosque
A major police investigation is underway following a disturbing threat to a mosque in Western Sydney.
The Australian Islamic House – Masjid Al-Bayt Al-Islami in Edmonson Park said in a statement on Tuesday evening it had received a threat on Instagram saying: 'I'm about to christ church (sic) 2.0 this joint.'
The threat references a heinous attack on a mosque in Christchurch New Zealand, where Australian-born man Brenton Tarrant killed 51 people in 2019 after storming the building and opening fire.
The mosque said it had reported the threat to authorities, who are investigating, and would continue its nightly Ramadan prayers, with increased police presence.
'We take this threat seriously. Our community deserves to feel safe, and we urge authorities to act swiftly. We also call on the public to stand united against Islamophobia and hate.' Mazhar Hadid OAM, president of the mosque, said.
Police have increased activity following the online threat made to the Edmondson Park mosque on Monday.
'The NSW Police Force takes hate crimes seriously and encourages anyone who is the victim of a hate crime or witnesses a hate crime to report the matter to police through Crime Stoppers,' a police spokesman said.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said it was very distressing, particularly as Muslims were participating in prayer during the month of Ramadan, which began on Friday.
'Racist threats and Islamophobia will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law,' he said.
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said this threat was incredibly concerning.
'Acts designed to intimidate and divide have no place in our society. Importantly, places of worship should always be a safe haven for our community,' he said.
'No matter your ethnicity, religion, or country of birth, we are all bound – first and foremost – by our common commitment to each other as Australians.
'We will continue to support our community to ensure they are protected and safe.'
More to come.
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