Leaders express concerns over safety and urge thorough investigations after a fire at Alhikma Islamic Center, highlighting past incidents of violence.
Muslim community leaders in Minneapolis are feeling “on edge” after a fire erupted at the Alhikma Islamic Center in South Minneapolis, prompting calls for a thorough investigation by authorities.
The blaze was reported around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, originating near a basement entrance that had been closed off, according to a release from the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN). Surveillance footage captured an unidentified individual leaving the area shortly before the fire ignited.
CAIR-MN reported that the brick construction of the mosque helped contain the fire, preventing injuries. The Minneapolis Fire Department later classified the incident as accidental, suggesting it may have been caused by homeless individuals using the stairwell for shelter.
Abdirizak Kaynan, the mosque’s imam, shared with Somali Media of Minnesota that the flames were concentrated on the stairs leading to the basement. “It was a huge fire, but the strong bricks prevented it from spreading further,” he noted, commending the firefighters for their swift response. He urged law enforcement to treat the incident with the seriousness it deserves.
Kaynan highlighted the location of a day care near the fire, which serves around 50 children. When police arrived, community members urged them to consider the incident as a potential hate crime. However, Kaynan felt their concerns were dismissed. He stated, “The police should have investigated this case as a potential hate crime since Islamophobia is on the rise nowadays,” expressing frustration over how the situation was handled.
Community members have faced threats at the mosque in the past, including a hit-and-run incident last year involving a member in the parking lot. Ahmed Anshur from the Islamic Association of North America reiterated concerns about the growing vulnerability of places of worship, urging the community to remain vigilant.
The mosque sustained damage that requires repair. The leadership has established a GoFundMe account to support the restoration efforts. You can donate here.
