A deeply disturbing letter containing violent threats has been delivered to Lakemba Mosque, raising serious concerns within Australia’s Muslim community on the eve of Ramadan.
The handwritten note, discovered at the mosque in Sydney’s south-west, is the third such letter received in recent weeks. It reportedly contained extremist language, offensive imagery, and explicit anti-Muslim threats. The correspondence also included references to past media coverage of similar incidents, intensifying fears among worshippers.
The letter reportedly mentioned activist Josh Lees and referenced Brenton Tarrant, the Australian responsible for the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks in New Zealand — a detail that has deeply alarmed community leaders.
Emergency Talks and Heightened Security
The letter was received just hours before the start of Ramadan, prompting urgent discussions between mosque officials and the New South Wales government. As a precaution, the mosque has tightened internal handling procedures, limiting staff access to incoming mail to preserve forensic evidence.
With Ramadan underway, thousands of worshippers — including families, women, and children — are expected to attend nightly prayers at the mosque. Large crowds are also anticipated at the popular Lakemba Night Markets, which operate several nights each week throughout the holy month and attract tens of thousands of visitors.
READ MORE: Dubai Limits School Hours to Five Daily During Ramadan
Community leaders have since called for a visible increase in police patrols around the area, particularly during peak evening hours.
A spokesperson for the Lebanese Muslim Association said community members are increasingly fearful.
“Families are anxious, and parents are questioning whether it is safe to bring their children to prayers. No community should have to experience this level of fear in Australia,” the spokesperson said.
Police Investigation Underway
The threatening letter has been seized by NSW Police for forensic examination, and a formal investigation has been launched. Authorities confirmed that additional patrols will be deployed under Operation Shelter to protect religious institutions and public events.
Police officials said they are working closely with local community leaders to ensure both safety and reassurance throughout Ramadan.
Earlier this year, a 70-year-old man was charged over a separate threatening letter sent to the mosque in January. Investigations into another letter received earlier this month remain ongoing.
A Landmark Mosque Under Scrutiny
Opened in 1977 with former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam in attendance, Lakemba Mosque is widely regarded as one of the most significant Islamic institutions in Australia.
The latest incident comes amid heightened political debate after One Nation leader Pauline Hanson publicly commented that some Australians feel uneasy visiting Lakemba — remarks that sparked widespread backlash from community representatives.
Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek criticised the comments, warning against divisive rhetoric during a tense period.
“This is a time for unity, not division. We must look after one another, especially when communities are feeling vulnerable,” he said.
As Ramadan continues, Muslim leaders are urging authorities and the wider public to stand against hatred and ensure that all Australians can practise their faith safely and without fear.
