Call for calm as police called in over offensive incident at well known Sheffield Islamic Centre
Police called in over early hours incident
Police have been called in and community leaders are calling for calm after an offensive incident at a Sheffield Islamic centre.
The incident, which happened in the early hours of the morning at Wybourn Islamic Centre, involved an English translation of Islam’s Holy book, the Qur’an, being thrown through the gates, with slices of pork inside it.
Pork is forbidden in Islam, and the incident has caused offence, but led to an appeal for calm, unity and peace.
Leaders at the centre, on Maltravers Road, confirmed police had been contacted, and the wider community has also condemned the incident.
Wybourn Islamic Centre has issued a statement on the incident, which describes what happened as disturbing, adding that leaders are deeply saddened.
It states: “At approximately 2am, an individual threw an English translation of the Holy Qur’an inside the gates of our masjid. When the Qur’an was subsequently discovered, three slices of pork were found deliberately placed between its pages.
“This was an extremely disrespectful and offensive act towards our faith, our sacred scripture and the Muslim community. The circumstances indicate that this was a deliberate act intended to cause offence and provoke a reaction.
“We strongly condemn this behaviour. However, as Muslims, we are guided by the values of peace, patience, dignity, wisdom and restraint. We will not allow an act of provocation to divide our community or cause us to respond with anger or hostility.”
“We urge everyone in our community to remain calm and united. Please do not engage in confrontation, retaliation or inflammatory comments, either in person or on social media. We must allow the relevant authorities to investigate the incident properly and take whatever action is appropriate.”
They added: “We stand firmly against hatred and disrespect, but we will continue to uphold peace, justice and dignity. We should not allow the actions of one individual to create division within our wider community.
“Wybourn Islamic Centre is, and will remain, a place of worship, peace, community and unity.”
South Yorkshire Police have been approached for comment.
Community leaders of all backgrounds have condemned the action of those responsible for the incident.
Coun Laura Moynahan, ward council for Manor and Castle on Sheffield Council, said: “Councillor Elle Dodd and I are appalled by this disgusting attack.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder against all forms of hatred, division and racism in our community.”