The scene after the incident.
Image: Facebook/Video screengrab
The South African Muslim Network (Samnet) has voiced its deep concern over an alleged Islamophobic hate crime that occurred in Tzaneen, where an acid bomb was reportedly thrown at a Muslim worshipper outside Masjid us Salaam following evening prayers.
In a statement issued Samnet highlighted the troubling frequency of hate incidents targeting Muslims, often merging with other forms of discrimination such as racism and xenophobia.
The organisation reminded the public that Muslims have played an integral role in South Africa's struggle for freedom, justice, and human rights since the onset of colonisation, establishing a strong legacy of diversity and inclusivity.
"While we need to recognise that our strength is in that diversity, we must remain vigilant and active in combatting Islamophobia," the statement read.
"The latest incident is merely another violent act that follows an attempted bombing of a mosque, acts of vandalism, and a brutal attack that resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to her family."
The attack occurred after evening prayers on Friday at approximately 9:40 pm, when a male congregant was assaulted by a group of four teenage boys as he walked home, roughly 100 metres from the mosque.
According to the Tzaneen Muslim Community statement, the assault involved throwing makeshift devices described as plastic bottles filled with a dangerous mixture of milk and chlorine.
The attack was entirely unprovoked, leaving the victim injured on his face and leg. Fortunately, members of the community, who were exiting the mosque, quickly intervened by pursuing the assailants. While two fled the scene, one was detained and remained behind a gate until police assistance arrived three hours later.
The Muslim community expressed dismay at the incident, noting it as a significant affront to Tzaneen, a town long regarded for its peaceful coexistence and multicultural respect.
"For over twenty years, Masjid us Salaam has stood as a symbol of tolerance and mutual respect among a variety of religious establishments, including numerous churches. The events of Friday night have understandably caused a wave of outrage and distress," the statement conveyed.
Despite the violence, the Tzaneen Muslim Community urged calm and encouraged the public to allow authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the attack.
"While we strongly condemn this act of violence and any form of hate or intimidation, we call upon our community to remain calm and respectful as the relevant authorities take appropriate action," it added.
Emphasising the core values of their faith, the community reiterated its dedication to peace, respect, and rule of law, stating, "Our faith teaches dignity, restraint, and compassion, even in the face of provocation. These principles will continue to guide us, showcasing that there is no space for hate, violence, or disrespect in our society. Masjid us Salaam and the Tzaneen Muslim Community firmly stand united in condemning this attack and in upholding the values of harmony and safety for all residents of Tzaneen."
IOL
According to the Tzaneen Muslim Community statement, the assault involved throwing makeshift devices described as plastic bottles filled with a dangerous mixture of milk and chlorine.
The attack was entirely unprovoked, leaving the victim injured on his face and leg. Fortunately, members of the community, who were exiting the mosque, quickly intervened by pursuing the assailants. While two fled the scene, one was detained and remained behind a gate until police assistance arrived three hours later.
The Muslim community expressed dismay at the incident, noting it as a significant affront to Tzaneen, a town long regarded for its peaceful coexistence and multicultural respect.
"For over twenty years, Masjid us Salaam has stood as a symbol of tolerance and mutual respect among a variety of religious establishments, including numerous churches. The events of Friday night have understandably caused a wave of outrage and distress," the statement conveyed.
Despite the violence, the Tzaneen Muslim Community urged calm and encouraged the public to allow authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the attack.
"While we strongly condemn this act of violence and any form of hate or intimidation, we call upon our community to remain calm and respectful as the relevant authorities take appropriate action," it added.
Emphasising the core values of their faith, the community reiterated its dedication to peace, respect, and rule of law, stating, "Our faith teaches dignity, restraint, and compassion, even in the face of provocation. These principles will continue to guide us, showcasing that there is no space for hate, violence, or disrespect in our society. Masjid us Salaam and the Tzaneen Muslim Community firmly stand united in condemning this attack and in upholding the values of harmony and safety for all residents of Tzaneen."
IOL