Racially aggravated damage at Islamic centre

Damage to an Islamic community centre is being treated as racially aggravated, police have said.

Hasan Kilik, 41, one of the voluntary Imam's at the Cornwall Islamic Community Centre near Truro, said the building on Quenchwell Road was targeted on Thursday night.

Devon and Cornwall Police said "substantial damage" to metal entrance gates was thought to have been caused by a vehicle, and said an "unknown substance, possibly oil" was poured within the grounds and on an exterior wall.

Kilik said community members sometimes felt "on edge" when similar incidents happened in other parts of the country, but added "when this happens here in Cornwall, they're going to be feeling extra emotional".

Kilik said the centre remained open for congregation but the car park was shut, adding the incident had sent "shock waves" into the community.

"Our message to everyone is that we stay united and we send out positive, strong message."

Ch Supt Scott Bradley, police commander for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: "Due to the location of the incident, we are treating it as racially aggravated criminal damage until such time as the evidence suggests otherwise.

"Such acts of mindless vandalism will not be welcomed in our communities. I would like to assure local residents that they can expect to see reassurance patrols being carried out today and over the weekend."

Police have asked anybody with information to get in touch with them.

Cornish political party, Mebyon Kernow, said in a statement that it was "horrified" about the attack.

"Now, as ever, we stand with Kernow's Muslim community, and thoroughly condemn this hate crime," it said.

"Cornwall's motto is 'Onen hag Oll' (one and all), reflecting the inclusivity and solidarity our Cornish communities deserve - whatever their religion or faith."

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