| Dr. Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC, stated: “We are horrified by this attack on our young people,... |
|
AFIC Calls for Immediate and Transparent Investigation into Targeted Shooting of Muslim Youth in Queensland
18/03/2025
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) is deeply alarmed by the recent drive-by shooting in Underwood, Queensland, which resulted in serious injuries to a young Muslim man. This incident occurred in a community area known to be frequented by Muslims, particularly during the sacred month of Ramadan, and involved victims who were dressed in traditional Islamic attire after attending Ramadan prayers.
The timing and targeting of this attack raise severe concerns about its motives, pointing potentially to an Islamophobic or hate-driven agenda. This unfortunate event coincides alarmingly with the sixth anniversary of the Christchurch massacre and the International Day to Counter Islamophobia, a day that marks our collective resistance against hatred and bigotry.
Dr. Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC, stated: “We are horrified by this attack on our young people, which appears to be a targeted act against members of the Muslim community. Such violence, particularly in the context of Ramadan, is not only abhorrent but also deeply disturbing. We urge the authorities to address this matter with the seriousness it demands and ensure that our community can observe their religious practices without fear.”
AFIC urgently demands that the Queensland Police conduct a thorough, transparent, and prompt investigation into this heinous act, treating it with the utmost seriousness it deserves. The young men targeted in this attack represent a community already burdened with the fears of increasing anti-Muslim sentiment, which must not be allowed to escalate unchecked.
Given the nature and timing of this incident, AFIC is particularly concerned that this may have been a targeted attack on young Muslim men. It is imperative that the investigation considers all possible motives, including those driven by hate or extremism.
We call upon local and federal leaders, including the Premier and local MP Hon. Jim Chalmers, to publicly condemn this attack and affirm their commitment to the safety and security of all communities, particularly the Muslim community during this holy month of Ramadan.
The Australian Muslim community needs reassurances now more than ever that such acts of violence will not be tolerated, and that every possible measure will be taken to protect them from hate-driven violence.
_____________________________________
AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President
|
