Night Attack Targets Cornwall’s Only Mosque as Police Investigate Suspected Hate Crime

Night Attack Targets Cornwall’s Only Mosque as Police Investigate Suspected Hate Crime
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The Cornwall Islamic Centre near Truro was targeted in a late-night attack that caused significant damage to its metal gates, prompting police to launch an investigation on suspicion of a racially motivated hate crime.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the incident occurred between Thursday, September 17, and Friday, September 18, when a vehicle was deliberately driven into the centre’s entrance gates. A substance believed to be oil was also poured inside the premises and on an exterior wall.

Local reports said CCTV footage showed a vehicle striking the gates before two individuals entered the site and poured the substance around the garden and building area. Police have not yet confirmed the exact nature of the material, and no injuries were reported.

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Police Commander Scott Bradley said the case would be treated as “criminal damage with a racial aggravation” unless evidence indicated otherwise. He added that additional patrols had been deployed in the area and appealed for witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to come forward.

The Cornwall Islamic Centre serves as a key religious and community institution for Muslims in the region, providing Friday prayers, educational activities and social services. The incident comes amid ongoing concerns in Britain over religious hate crimes and attacks targeting Muslim communities and Islamic institutions.