OXFORD, UK – Central Oxford Mosque has condemned what it describes as a “cowardly hate crime” after pork and an Israeli flag were allegedly placed on its doors in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
According to the mosque’s trustees, security footage captured a lone man wearing a grey tracksuit and balaclava climbing over the perimeter fence at around 12:35 am on August 19. The individual reportedly fixed pieces of pork to the mosque’s door handles and stuck an Israeli flag on the central entrance.
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In a statement, the trustees expressed deep sadness:
“This act is heartbreaking for our community. The suspect fled before police arrived, but forensic officers have collected evidence, and our volunteers, alongside the Imam, have cleansed and purified the affected doors.”
They added that the incident follows a similar attack last year, when a petrol can marked “IDF” was thrown over the mosque’s gate.
The trustees urged local residents to check CCTV and doorbell camera footage and report any suspicious activity to Thames Valley Police by calling 101, or directly to the mosque’s management team.
“This is an act of cowardice, intended to sow division. Hate crimes aim to fracture communities, but we stand united and urge calm. Emotions are high, but we must not let hatred win.”
Thames Valley Police have been contacted for comment and are investigating the matter.
