Muslims hit by air rifle pellets near mosque

Categories: Latest News
Thursday August 20 2015
The Lancashire Telegraph reports on injuries inflicted on two Muslims who were hit by suspected air rifle pellets as they left a mosque in Nelson.
The first incident occurred on Sunday evening around 9.30pm when a 58 year old man reported being hit in the back of the head with what are believed to be air rifle pellets as he made his way to his car after leaving the Jamia Masjid Minhaj ul Quran in Nelson, Lancashire.
A second man, aged 56, reported he was struck in the neck as he made his way to the same mosque at around 7.15pm on Monday evening. Both incidents happened in a car park on Brunswick Street, close to the mosque.
The local paper reports that both men “sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment at hospital.”
Police have stepped up patrols in the area to reassure the local community and to deter repeat attacks.
Inspector Dave Clark, of Burnley Police, said: “At this stage, the motivation behind these incidents is unclear and we are yet to establish whether the two are linked.
“We understand these incidents may cause concern in the area and I would like to reassure residents there will be an increased police presence.
“An investigation to find out who is responsible is already under way and I would urge people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.”