Police continue appeal after Central Oxford Mosque petrol can incident
Local MPs say they're 'shocked and saddened'
Last updated 30th Oct 2023
Police are continuing their appeal for witnesses after a petrol can was thrown at Central Oxford Mosque on Saturday (28th October) Thames Valley Police say the incident is being considered a "hate crime."
Fortunately, there were no injuries, and the can was empty. The writing on the can, reading 'IDF RULE' and 'IDF,' suggested a link to the Israel Defence Forces.
The Central Oxford Mosque and Islamic Cultural Society in Manzil Way believes it was targeted for displaying Palestinian flags.
In a statement the mosque said:
"We believe this attack was due to us showing our unwavering support for the innocent people of Palestine by displaying Palestine flags around our mosque.
"This attempt to scare us will not work.
"We will continue to exercise our democratic right and show solidarity with the innocent Palestinians being massacred indiscriminately and illegally."
In a joint statement, Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds and Susan Brown, leader of Oxford City Council, said they were “shocked and saddened” by the incident.
“We stand with the Muslim community in Oxford in condemning this cowardly attack and urging people to be vigilant,” they said.
Oxford West and Abingdon MP Layla Moran said:
"I strongly condemn this attack. Islamophobia or any hate crime has no place in our society.
"Pleased that TVP has taken this seriously and I hope the full force of the law is applied to the perpetrators when they are hopefully caught."
To report information, contact the police at 101 or use the website reference number 43230484992. Crimestoppers also accepts anonymous information at 0800 555 111 or via their website.