A SCOTTISH mosque has been targeted by “wilful and despicable” attacks that saw a rock thrown through a window while worshippers were inside.
The Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre (AMIC) Spital Mosque was also vandalised with paint on Saturday evening, management said in a post on social media.
However, the community has rallied around the mosque, helping to clean up the damage and also sending messages of support online.
In a statement, AMIC said: “There were two incidents of vandalism last night at AMIC Spital Mosque where paint was thrown at the door and pavement area and a few hours later a rock thrown through a window of the mosque whilst worshippers were inside.
“Following these attacks on the mosque, kind neighbours and worshippers united to help clean up the mess, whilst others sent messages of support. We are very grateful to our neighbours and wellwishers in these difficult times.
“The wilful and despicable criminal acts have been reported to the police and they are investigating the source of the attacks. If you witnessed anything please call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or submit any relevant information online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
“Meanwhile the mosques in Aberdeen would like to assure all members of the community that in light of these incidents, all the mosques are taking additional security measures as well as being assured of support from the police. The police will be performing additional patrols around the mosques during prayer and other busy times.
“We would ask all attendees and worshippers to please be alert and remain vigilant, however do not be alarmed and continue with your efforts and prayers to gain maximum benefits from this blessed month of Ramadan.”
Responding on social media, one user wrote: “I’m so sorry to hear of this attack on my neighbours property and a big thank you to all who helped out. I’m ashamed that the perpetrators are fellow Aberdonians. Ramadan Mubarak to you all.”
A second said: “I'm glad people came together to help out with the clean up, proud of Aberdeen sometimes, however, this never should have happened.”
Aberdeen City councillor Nurul Hoque Ali said there had been “shocking events at Spital Mosque”.
“Islamophobia is on the rise in our tolerant and peaceful Aberdeen,” he added.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Following an investigation into reports of vandalism at a Mosque in Spittal, Aberdeen, officers have arrested and charged a 17-year-old male.
"The incident occurred on Saturday, 15 March, 2025. Police are treating the incident as a hate crime.
"The male has been released on an undertaking and will appear at court at a later date."
