| AFIC Condemns Shots Fired at Logan Mosque and Calls for Public Assistance in Police Investigation |
** Federation President Dr. Rateb Jneid: "When fear, suspicion, and hostility toward any religious group become normalized or accepted... then Australians must reject all forms of hatred, prejudice, and religious intolerance."
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AFIC Condemns Shots Fired at Logan Mosque and Calls for Public Assistance in Police Investigation
19/010/2026
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) condemns in the strongest possible terms the apparent shooting incident targeting the Logan Mosque in Kingston, Queensland, on Friday night.
AFIC President Dr Rateb Jneid said the incident was deeply disturbing and could easily have resulted in a far more tragic outcome.
“We are profoundly grateful to Allah that no worshipper, staff member, volunteer or visitor was injured or killed as a result of this attack. While property can be repaired, the loss of human life or serious injury would have been an immeasurable tragedy,” said Dr Jneid.
AFIC understands that damage consistent with gunfire has been identified at the mosque premises and that Queensland Police are investigating the matter.
“AFIC calls upon anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the vicinity of the mosque, or who may have relevant CCTV, mobile phone, or dashcam footage, to come forward and assist Queensland Police with their investigation,” Dr Jneid said.
The Logan Mosque serves as an important place of worship, community service, education, and social support for families from diverse backgrounds.
“A mosque is a place of prayer, peace, service and reflection. An attack on a place of worship is an attack on the principles of mutual respect, religious freedom and social harmony that Australians hold dear,” Dr Jneid said.
Dr Jneid said that while the motive for the incident remains the subject of a police investigation, community leaders and public figures have a responsibility to ensure public discourse does not contribute to division and hostility.
“While it would be premature to speculate on the motive behind this incident, it is impossible to ignore the increasingly charged atmosphere in which religious and cultural communities find themselves. Public figures and those seeking public office carry a particular responsibility to avoid language that demonises, marginalises or vilifies entire communities,” Dr Jneid said.
“When fear, suspicion and hostility towards any faith group are normalised, the social consequences can be profound. Australians must reject all forms of hatred, prejudice and religious intolerance.”
Dr Jneid reaffirmed AFIC’s support for the Logan Mosque community and expressed confidence that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
“AFIC stands in solidarity with the Logan Mosque community and all Queensland Muslims affected by this incident. We have confidence that Queensland Police will investigate this matter thoroughly, and we encourage members of the public to assist in any way they can.”
“Our prayers are with the congregation, the local community and all those impacted by this alarming incident. We ask Allah to protect our communities, preserve peace and security throughout Australia, and guide us all towards greater understanding and mutual respect,” Dr Jneid said.
Authorised by:
Dr Rateb Jneid
President |
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