Police have launched a major hate crime investigation after shocking CCTV footage emerged showing a suspected arsonist deliberately starting a fire at a Walsall mosque.
The disturbing video, released by West Midlands Police, captures a hooded figure approaching the mosque before setting materials alight against the building's exterior wall. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning at the mosque on Oxford Street.
Deliberate Attack on Place of Worship
Investigators have confirmed they are treating the blaze as a deliberate act of arson targeting the Muslim community. The footage clearly shows the individual carrying out the attack with apparent premeditation.
Detective Inspector James Hester stated: "We're treating this as a hate crime and are following several active lines of enquiry. This was a dangerous and reckless act that could have had devastating consequences."
Community Response and Appeal for Information
Local community leaders have expressed shock and concern following the attack. Mosque officials are working closely with police to enhance security measures and support worshippers.
Police have made a direct appeal to the public, urging anyone with information to come forward. Officers are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Oxford Street area between midnight and 1:30 AM on Tuesday.
The investigation team is also reviewing additional CCTV footage from surrounding properties and conducting house-to-house enquiries in the neighbourhood.
Zero Tolerance for Hate Crimes
West Midlands Police have reinforced their commitment to tackling religious hate crimes, emphasising that attacks on places of worship will be investigated with the utmost seriousness.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police quoting crime reference number 123456789. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers.
