Australian Police Open Investigation After Threat Letter Sent to Country’s Largest Mosque
The incident marks the third hate‑related threat targeting a mosque as Ramadan approaches.
Details of the Threat
Australian media reported that a letter received on Wednesday at the Lakemba Mosque in western Sydney contained a drawing of a pig and a death threat aimed at “the Muslim race.”
- The police seized the envelope for forensic analysis.
- They confirmed that patrols around places of worship and gathering sites will continue.
Recent Similar Incidents
| Date | Incident | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| A few weeks ago | A similar letter depicting Muslims inside a burning mosque. | Under investigation. |
| January 2023 | A 70‑year‑old man was arrested and charged for threatening the staff of the same mosque. | Charged. |
A Growing Climate of Concern
The Lebanese Muslim Association, which manages the mosque, told national television that it has requested additional government funding to boost security (guards and cameras).
- Approximately 5,000 worshippers are expected each evening at Lakemba during Ramadan.
- Bilal El‑Hayek, Mayor of Canterbury‑Bankstown, highlighted the community’s rising anxiety:
“I have personally heard parents say they will not send their children to pray during Ramadan for fear of what might happen at local mosques.”
Government Condemnation
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese strongly denounced the series of threats:
“It is scandalous that people practicing their religion, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, are subjected to this kind of intimidation. I have repeatedly said we must calm the political discourse in this country.”
A recent government‑commissioned report shows that anti‑Muslim sentiment in Australia has risen since the Gaza conflict began at the end of 2023.
- The Islamophobia Register Australia documented a 740 % increase in reported incidents after the events in Bondi on 14 December.
Keywords: Australian police, mosque threats, Lakemba Mosque, Ramadan, Islamophobia, anti‑Muslim sentiment, security, Lebanese Muslim Association, Anthony Albanese.
