HomeAUFamilies Wary of Bringing Children to Mosque After Third Threatening Letter Arrives

Families Wary of Bringing Children to Mosque After Third Threatening Letter Arrives

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Sydney‘s Lakemba Mosque has received its third threatening letter on the eve of Ramadan, which leaders said has left the Muslim community fearful and anxious.

The Lebanese Muslim Association, which oversees the Lakemba Mosque, reported that a concerning letter was delivered via mail today.

Sydney's Lakemba Mosque has received its third threatening letter on the eve of Ramadan, which leaders said has left the Muslim community fearful and anxious.
Sydney’s Lakemba Mosque has received its third threatening letter on the eve of Ramadan. (Supplied)

“This marks the third letter of this nature we’ve received, and the person responsible is still unidentified,” stated a spokesperson for the association.

Lakmeba Mosque has received three threatening letters since January 24, but only one person, a 70-year-old man accused of sending the first letter, has been charged.

The most recent letter included a disturbing image of the Lakemba Mosque engulfed in flames with people trapped inside.

This has understandably left the local community feeling anxious and fearful, according to the Lebanese Muslim Association.

“We’ve been contacted by community members who are scared that something might occur, especially given the current heightened tensions,” the spokesperson explained.

“Families are anxious. Parents are worried about bringing their children to prayers. No community should feel this way in Australia.”

Lakemba Mosque received its second threatening letter yesterday afternoon.
The second threatening letter Lakemba Mosque received. (Nine)
The Lebanese Muslim Association urged police to prioritise catching the person responsible due to the ongoing nature of the threats and increased activity during Ramadan. 

“Thousands of families, elderly members and young children will attend nightly prayers. Every Australian should be able to practise their faith safely and without fear,” the spokesperson said. 

The Lebanese Muslim Association has also formally written to the state government to strengthen security measures, including upgraded CCTV and funded security personnel during Ramadan.

NSW government officials are meeting with leaders of the Muslim community today to discuss community safety and other measures. 

Police are investigating and will increase patrols around the Lakemba Mosque, religious sites and community events during the holy month of Ramadan.

Lakemba Mosque
Lakemba Mosque. (Nine)

Police and Counter-Terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley said community safety was the highest priority for both the police and government.

The Islamophobia Register Australia recorded a 530 per cent increase in Islamophobic incidents and more than 1500 cases reported since Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. 

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