Racist attacks rock community (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Racist attacks rock community

THERE are fears someone will be hurt if there are more racist attacks in Swindon. The warning comes after an arson attempt on a mosque and three separate racist graffiti attacks in seven days.

The fire at the Jamia Mosque in Broad Street was put out and no one was hurt. But Jaginda Bassi, director of the Swindon Racial Equality Council, pictured right, is worried another attack could be more serious.

"Fortunately there were no injuries," he said. "We were very fortunate this time.

"My fear is that on the next occasion we may not be so fortunate.

"I call for members of the public to be vigilant."

Canon Michael Johnson, the chairman of Swindon Churches Together, condemned the attacks.

"We utterly deplore this kind of action," he said.

"We want to stand beside the members of the mosques and the gurdwara in goodwill and for the freedom to be able to offer worship in safety and security and in peace.

"We have got to stand beside each other in harmony.

"We are totally appalled that anyone would do this to any building, especially a religious building."

The Sikh Temple in Kembrey Street was attacked overnight on Wednesday September 21.

The main wall and a sign within the temple compound were daubed with racist graffiti. This week the focus turned to the Jamia Mosque which was sprayed with graffiti on Tuesday night and the fire was started at 9.45am on Wednesday. It is believed they were connected.

The Shah Jelal Mosque, on Manchester Road, was also attacked overnight on Tuesday, when graffiti was daubed on a side door and a wall. Police believe the incidents may be linked and say they are treated them seriously.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incidents should contact Detective Sergeant Drever or the Community and Race Relations Department at Swindon Police on 01793 528111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Isabel Field