Sri Lanka
USA
Canada
India
UK
UAE
Sydney’s Lakemba Mosque has received its third threatening letter ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, raising serious concerns among the Muslim community about safety and rising hate incidents.
Leaders of the Muslim community in Sydney have expressed fear and anxiety after Lakemba Mosque received its third threatening letter on the eve of Ramadan. The latest letter reportedly contained a newspaper clipping about a previous threat, a drawing of a pig, and messages threatening the lives and safety of Muslims.
The Lebanese Muslim Association (LMA), which manages the Lakemba Mosque, confirmed that the letter was delivered by post. A spokesperson stated that this was the third such incident since January 24, and although a 70-year-old man has been charged in connection with the first letter, the individual responsible for the recent threats remains at large.
Previous threats have included disturbing imagery, such as a depiction of the mosque on fire with people inside, which has heightened fears among community members. The LMA said families are particularly worried about attending prayers during Ramadan, with parents expressing concern about bringing their children to the mosque.
The association urged police to prioritise the investigation, noting that thousands of worshippers, including elderly people and children, are expected to attend nightly prayers during Ramadan. They also formally requested the state government to strengthen security measures, including upgraded CCTV systems and funded security personnel.
NSW government officials are meeting with Muslim community leaders to discuss safety measures, while police have confirmed that patrols will be increased around the Lakemba Mosque, religious sites, and community events throughout Ramadan. Police and Counter-Terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley emphasised that community safety remains a top priority.
Meanwhile, the Islamophobia Register Australia reported a 530 per cent rise in Islamophobic incidents since October 2023, with more than 1,500 cases recorded, highlighting growing concerns about religious intolerance and hate crimes.
