Lancashire police are investigating after a Blackburn café’s Muslim prayer room suffered serious damage after masked men attacked with what appeared to be fire bombs.
CCTV footage shows the men attacking through the window of Café Raha’s prayer room, which is located near its entrance. The incident is reported to have taken place in the early hours of Monday morning at around 2.30am.
Police and firefighters were called to the scene of the incident and an investigation has been launched.
A police spokesperson said: "Detectives are leading the investigation and are carrying out a number of lines of enquiry, including checking CCTV in the area. No suspects have been identified at this time.
“While the motivation for the attack has yet to be fully established there is no suggestion at this time that the incident is racially or religiously motivated.”
The statement continued: “We are aware that incidents such as this can be quite distressing for the local residents in Blackburn and wider communities, but we would like to reassure you that is an ongoing and active police investigation, and we will provide an update as soon as we have concluded our enquiries.
“We have increased reassurance patrols in the area; therefore, the public will see an increase in police presence in the area. If you see our police officers out and about in your area and are concerned, please come and speak to us.”
It is reportedly the second incident of its kind within the week, with police insisting that neither is suggested to be racially or religiously motivated.
Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain extended his support to Café Raha and called the “shocking and distressing” incident “completely unacceptable”.
“I was deeply concerned to hear of the recent arson attack on Café Raha in Blackburn, which caused damage to part of the premises, including a prayer room,” Mr Hussain wrote in a statement.
“This was a shocking and distressing incident, and my thoughts are with the owner, staff and all those affected. A member of my team visited the café to offer support, and I am encouraged to hear that the owner remains determined to reopen as soon as possible.
“I also welcome the ongoing support and assistance being provided by Lancashire Police as they continue their investigation.
“Blackburn is a town defined by hard work, resilience and strong community spirit. Incidents of this nature have no place in our community and are completely unacceptable. I hope those responsible are identified and brought to justice swiftly.
“My office remains in contact with the business owner, and we stand ready to assist in any way we can during this difficult time.”
The Board of Deputies of British Jews released a statement in solidarity with the cafe in a post on Friday, writing: “The news of an arson attack on a prayer room used by Muslim communities in Blackburn this week is deeply concerning.
“Whilst the motive of the perpetrators is not yet determined, our society must ensure all faith communities go without threats of violence or intimidation.”
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