Anti-Muslim graffiti in Surrey's Newton neighbourhood prompts RCMP investigation
Police in Surrey say they are investigating "several incidents of anti-Muslim graffiti" that have been found in the city's Newton neighbourhood since July 5.
Photos and video provided to CTV News show the words ‘Islam is evil’ scrawled in black marker on bus stops and street signs, including some near a mosque.
“We’ve had a lot of calls come in (from community members), they feel threatened and they feel scared,” said Imam Sheryar Bashir of the Surrey East Branch of the BC Muslim Association. “Especially after what happened in London, Ontario.”
In early June, a southwest Ontario man drove into five members of a Muslim family, killing four and injuring a nine-year-old boy.
At the time, Muslims across the country expressed safety concerns.
Now, the hateful graffiti cropping up in Surrey has many in that community worried it may be a precursor to something more sinister and dangerous.
With Eid celebrations coming up next week, the mosque has hired private security and wants the RCMP to increase patrols in the area.
“That’s the biggest question on everyone’s mind right now. Are the officials going to protect us when we need them? And are we going to wait for something to happen and then get the security?” said Bashir.
In response to those concerns, Surrey RCMP says it will take steps to help the community feel safe.
“If that means that our members be present in the area at the time of the prayers, we will work that out with (mosque) representatives,” said Cst. Sarbjit Sangha.
The most recent anti-Muslim graffiti appeared on Wednesday.
Police are reviewing video from nearby businesses and traffic cams, and are also asking the public to call in if they see anyone defacing property.
“We believe that these incidents are related to a single person, or a small group of individuals who are doing these incidents,” said Sangha.
Bashir says many people who harbor anti-Muslim sentiments are likely being radicalized and he’d like to see police target online hate networks as well.
“It’s not just one person anymore. These are people that have solid intentions of bringing about bad in the world,” he said. “So, I think CSIS needs to work on this and find those people. Find those small pockets and control the damage right from there.”
Anyone with information about the graffiti is asked to call Surrey RCMP or CrimeStoppers.
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