A mosque has lashed out after its outside sign was allegedly vandalised in an act it described as "reprehensible".
CCTV footage appears to show a man walking past Collier Row Mosque in Chase Cross Road before stopping and tearing down a sign just outside its premises.
The alleged vandalism, which the camera captured on Saturday (April 6), was branded a "senseless act" by the mosque, which provided the footage taken at around 8.05pm that evening.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police acknowledged the incident and said enquiries have been made.
This came just four days before Eid-al-Fitr 2024 today (April 10) where Muslims end their Ramadan fast and celebrate.
"We are deeply disheartened by this senseless act, which not only violates the sanctity of our mosque but also disrupts the harmony and unity within our community," a statement from the mosque said.
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The mosque, which alleged it was an act of hatred and discrimination and vandalised its "sacred space", offers a place for Muslims to pray and socialise.
A spokesperson for the mosque said police would soon invite representatives to their station to provide a statement.
The sign was reportedly torn down after just a few hours of it being in place and concerns have since been raised by the mosque over safety.
"We firmly believe that acts of hatred and violence have no place in our society," the mosque stated.
"We call upon all members of our community to join us in condemning this reprehensible act and to work together towards building a more inclusive and harmonious society."
Collier Row Mosque - also known as Masjid - is part of Newham and Redbridge Mosques, a small group which looks to find convenient prayer times for Muslims in east London.
The mosque stressed it remains a place for people to come together to pray, reflect and find solace in each other's company.
"We stand firm in our commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, and understanding among all individuals, regardless of faith, race, or background.
"Now, more than ever, it is crucial for us to stand united against bigotry and discrimination, reaffirming our collective commitment to creating a world where everyone feels safe and valued."
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