The Al-Azhar Mosque in District Six has raised alarm following a threatening message warning of a planned bombing and intent to harm worshipers. The threat that caused panic on Sunday was reportedly received via WhatsApp from a fake profile purportedly based in Miami, U.S.A.
The mosque, which is visibly adorned with murals and flags
in solidarity with Palestine, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the
Palestinian cause.
PHOTO SUPPLIED “Cape Town Central
police registered an intimidation case for investigation following an incident
on Sunday, May 4, in which a message was sent via cellular telephone about a
bomb threat. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under
investigation, and no arrests have been made,’’ said Sergeant Wesley Twigg, Western
Cape police spokesperson.
In a statement, the Al-Azhar Masjid Committee urged worshipers
to be extra vigilant.
“It goes without saying that the safety of all Musalees is
our top priority. We therefore urge everyone, including all who are attending
other Masaajied, to be extra vigilant and stay aware of your surroundings.
Please report ALL suspicious activities and persons to the relevant members of
your Masaajied, as well as the authorities. The Al Azhar Masjied Committee
together with the Madrassa Committee have taken the necessary precautionary
measures to tighten our security.”
“We affirm our unconditional support for the people of
Palestine. May our Rabb grant ease to the people of Palestine and all oppressed
communities across the world, and bestow upon them victory, Insha-Allah,” it added.
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) in Cape Town coordinator
Usuf Chikte said the threats were a direct attack on the sanctity and safety of
places of worship and an attempt to intimidate those who support Palestine.
“These acts form part of a disturbing trend aimed at
intimidating and silencing those who stand in solidarity with the Palestinian
people and speak out against the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
Chikte wants Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayoral
Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith, and Western Cape Premier
Alan Winde to publicly condemn the threats and denounce the intimidation of
pro-Palestinian voices.
Done by: Mitchum George
No comments:
Post a Comment