In the wake of the Christchurch mosque attacks in New Zealand, a private patrol service has been launched in New York to protect Muslim places of worship. The Muslim Community Patrol, a self-funded group, uses vehicles resembling NYPD squad cars with emergency lights to provide additional security during crowded prayer times.
Co-founder Noor Rabah describes the initiative as 'security on steroids,' aiming to act as a deterrent. Volunteers are unarmed and have no legal authority, serving as 'eyes and ears' to report to the police. The patrol has expanded its presence during Ramadan, following calls from the Council on American-Islamic Relations for heightened vigilance.
However, the patrols have faced backlash, particularly on social media, with far-right commentators accusing them of enforcing Sharia law. Some community members, like Somia Elrowmeim of the Arab American Association of New York, question the group's motives and worry that any incident could reflect badly on the Muslim community.
Others express concerns about relying on police for security due to a history of mistrust post-9/11. Lawyer Namira Islam advocates for alternative security measures, citing implicit bias and potential immigration enforcement issues. Despite the controversy, the patrol plans to expand nationwide by next year.
