The prayer leader stabbed at the London Central Mosque in Regent’s Park this February fears he may be attacked again while worshipping, a court has been told.
On 20 Februrary, Raafat Maglad, 70, was fatally stabbed in the neck. 9 months later, Mr Maglad has made a full recovery but he is fearful of another 'unprovoked attack' could happen while worshipping in the mosque.
Daniel Horton, 30, was arrested at the scene, after he attacked the mosque’s muezzin from behind, during prayers on Thursday morning. Mr Maglad needed hospital treatment for injuries which included a 0.6in wound to his neck.
He returned to the mosque for Friday prayers less than 24 hours after the stabbing but now fears becoming the victim of another “unprovoked attack” during worship. Prosecutor Benn Maguire said, ‘he worries about going out and still does not know why he was attacked.’
The court case started last Monday (16 November) and was being held at the Southwark Crown Court. The sentencing of Horton, who previously pleaded guilty to carrying out the attack: one count of grievous bodily harm and possession of a bladed article, has been adjourned so the court can seek further psychiatric information. The court was told Horton wishes to be jailed.
Horton brought a kitchen knife to the mosque and has admitted to regularly carrying a blade for years, saying that it was for personal protection. He has previous convictions including assaulting an officer, affray, common assault which included shouting abuse at police officers, spitting at them and saying he had HIV, as well as possession of a knife.
In adjourning the hearing, Judge Deborah Taylor said: “This is not a simple case, and one that I feel needs to take further care and needs to look further at the mental health route, even if the court does not take it.” The case and sentencing will be continued in court from 10 December.
