Vancouver police investigate graffiti sprayed on mosque doors
Vancouver police are investigating graffiti found on the front doors of Al Masjid Al Jamia Mosque and are asking anyone with information or footage to contact them.
Crime Canada newsroomPublished
Vancouver police are investigating graffiti spray-painted on the front doors of Al Masjid Al Jamia Mosque in the 800-block of West 8th Avenue. A maintenance worker reported the graffiti to officers early on Nov. 13, after it was discovered overnight, police said.
Officers were conducting proactive patrols in the area when the worker approached them. Police said the graffiti read: “UK BLOOD IS ON YOUR HAND.”
Officers immediately began investigating and searched the area for evidence, including surveillance video. Investigators are working to identify the person responsible, according to the Vancouver Police Department.
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In a statement about the investigation, Sgt. Adam Donaldson described the effect such incidents can have on people who gather to worship and connect with their community.
“This type of incident has a significant impact on the people who gather to worship and connect with their community,” Donaldson said. “We want to reassure the Muslim community that these acts won’t be tolerated, and if the evidence supports hate crime charges, we will pursue them.”
Police said there will be additional patrols in the area.
Information sought
The department is asking anyone with information about the incident, or who may have dash-cam or surveillance footage from the area, to contact Vancouver police.
About these reports
This article is based on the official statement linked below. Charges are allegations; everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Official source: Vancouver Police Department