Police launch investigation into hate crime at Oxford mosque

Pork and an Israeli flag were left at the entrance of the Central Oxford Mosque.

The Central Oxford Mosque on Manzil Way.
Author: Luke ReeveyPublished 19th Aug 2025

Thames Valley Police are appealing for information after pork and an Israeli flag were left at the entrance of an Oxford Mosque.

The incident was reported to police just before 1.40am on Tuesday (19 August) after the items were left at the entrance of the Central Oxford Mosque on Manzil Way- just off Cowley Road.

Thames Valley Police Chief Superintendent Ben Clark said: “This was a provocative act to upset and offend mosque users.

"Such behaviour has no place in our community and we will do everything in our powers to bring anybody involved to justice.

“An active investigation is ongoing with a number of lines of enquiry that are being progressed by detectives.

“We understand this incident is distressing and are working closely with community leaders while continuing our enquiries.

"The mosque remains open and officers are providing support to those affected.”

Local officers are also patrolling the area and are available to speak with anyone who has concerns.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.