Queensland police have charged a 33-year-old man with disturbing a place of worship and creating a public nuisance following an alleged incident at the Masjid Taqwa mosque in Bald Hills, Brisbane.
Incident details
The man is alleged to have entered the mosque at approximately 10:46 am on Sunday and threatened worshippers who were praying. According to the Australian National Imams Council, he claimed to have an AK-47 firearm in his vehicle outside. However, police confirmed the man was not armed and fled the scene before officers arrived. No injuries were reported.
Legal proceedings
The 33-year-old is due to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 22 May. He has been charged with disturbing a place of worship and creating a public nuisance.
Community reaction
The Australian National Imams Council described the incident as deeply disturbing and a grave violation of the sanctity, safety, and security of a place of worship. Council President Imam Shadi Alsuleiman stated: "Places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, reflection, and safety. Any act of intimidation, threats, or hatred directed towards worshippers is utterly unacceptable."
Broader context
The mosque has previously been targeted with anti-Muslim graffiti, Nazi symbols, and Islamophobic abuse. In separate incidents last September, the Islamic College of Brisbane received a threatening email, and the Arundel mosque on the Gold Coast was subject to a bomb hoax. Imam Shadi expressed concern over escalating hostility faced by Muslim communities, attributing it to divisive narratives promoted by sections of the media and certain political figures.
A police spokesperson confirmed there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
