Shocking CCTV footage has emerged showing the terrifying moment hooded arsonists targeted a mosque in Walsall, setting fire to prayer rooms in what police are treating as a hate crime.
The dramatic video, released by West Midlands Police, captures two figures approaching the Jamia Masjid Quba mosque under cover of darkness before deliberately starting a blaze that could have had catastrophic consequences.
Late-Night Attack on Place of Worship
According to police reports, the incident occurred around 11:20 PM on Tuesday night when the perpetrators approached the mosque carrying containers of flammable liquid. The CCTV shows them pouring accelerant around the building's entrance before igniting it and fleeing the scene.
Thankfully, no worshippers were inside at the time of the attack, though the fire caused significant damage to the mosque's exterior and entrance area.
Community Shock and Police Response
Local residents and mosque attendees have expressed their horror at the targeted attack. Mosque trustee Mohammed Shafiq described the incident as "deeply disturbing for our community" and emphasised that places of worship should be sanctuaries for all.
West Midlands Police have launched a full investigation, with Detective Chief Inspector Jim Munro stating: "This was a reckless and dangerous act that could have resulted in serious injury or worse. We're treating this as a hate crime and are following several lines of enquiry."
Appeal for Witnesses
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward, particularly those who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Walsall area around the time of the incident. Officers are conducting door-to-door enquiries and reviewing additional CCTV footage from surrounding properties.
The attack has prompted increased security measures at local religious institutions, with community leaders calling for unity and vigilance in the wake of the disturbing event.
