Teenager charged after Aberdeen mosque vandalised

A teenager has been charged after a rock was thrown through the window of an Aberdeen mosque and paint was spilled over the door while worshippers were inside.

It happened on Saturday night when worshippers realised paint had been thrown over the door of the mosque on Spital.

A few hours later a rock was thrown through the window.

Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre said no one was injured but people were left shaken.

Police Scotland said a 17-year-old has been arrested in connection with the incident and they are treating it as a hate crime.

'We are all shocked'

Naveed Mohammed, Chair of Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre said he was shocked by what happened.

"We are all surprised by this because in the 18 years I have been in Aberdeen, I've never experienced anything like this at all.

"I suppose there is no reason for it either so we are just all a bit shocked."

Naveed explained that during the rest of Ramadan they will have people patrolling the area and other mosques will be warning worshippers to be extra vigilant.

He went on to thank the community after neighbours came out to help clean up the mess.

He said: "A lot of people came out, they came out with buckets or whatever they could and helped clean up the mess.

"It goes to show we are one community and we all live happily in amongst each other so it's nice to see."

Teenager charged

Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre released a statement condemning the "wilful and despicable" acts.

They said: "Following these attacks on the mosque kind neighbours and worshippers united to help clean up the mess, whilst others sent messages of support. We are very grateful to our neighbours and wellwishers in these difficult times.

"The wilful and despicable criminal acts have been reported to the police and they are investigating the source of the attacks."

They added: "The Mosques in Aberdeen would like to assure all members of the community that in light of these incidents, all the Mosques are taking additional security measures as well as being assured of support from the police.

"The police will be performing additional patrols around the mosques during prayer and other busy times.

"We would ask all attendees and worshippers to please be alert and remain vigilant, however do not be alarmed and continue with your efforts and prayers to gain maximum benefits from this blessed month of Ramadan."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Following an investigation into reports of vandalism at a mosque in Spital, Aberdeen, officers have arrested and charged a 17-year-old male. The incident occurred on Saturday 15 March.

"Police are treating the incident as a hate crime.

"The male has been released on an undertaking and will appear at court at a later date."

Hear all the latest news from the North East of Scotland on Northsound 1. Listen on FM, via our Rayo app, DAB, or smart speaker.