Statement from Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE following assault at the Al-Karam Mosque on Katherine Road E7

Following the disturbing news about a serious and violent attack on the Imam at the Al-Karam Mosque in Newham which took place in the early hours of Monday morning (22nd July) after Fajr Prayer, I am pleased that there has been the arrest of an adult male by Newham police. He has been charged with assault and an offensive weapon related offence and appeared in court yesterday (24th July).

To hear about this violent assault against a man of faith, and in a place of God, has been especially distressing. He is in my prayers and in my thoughts. Like many in our borough, he is amongst the best of us because he lives a selfless life in service and doing God’s work. I know that we will come together as a community to provide comfort, support and to reassure.

Here at the Council we will do all that we can to safeguard our communities against all forms of violence as well as hate. We also particularly celebrate our religious diversity and bring communities together through inter-religious dialogue and interfaith events.

Over the coming days, Newham’s Police, supported by the Council's Community Safety Enforcement and CCTV teams, will be providing additional patrols in the area where the Mosque is located, including for Friday prayers. Additionally, the Police’s specialist faith officers have been liaising closely with mosques in Newham and community groups to provide additional reassurance during this time.