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Associated Press – October 26, 2006
Texas mosque vandalized three times in one month
LUBBOCK, Texas - Vandals have struck a Lubbock mosque three times in the past month, prompting fear and calls for understanding among some in the religious center's community.
Most recently someone used black spray paint Tuesday night to write the misspelled word "Redemtion" on the building. Vandals have also trampled the mosque's flower beds and smashed exterior lights within the past month.
"I don't know what is the message they're trying to give," said Faiz Rahman, a member of the mosque and the adviser to Texas Tech University's Muslim Students Association. "Given that it happened three times within the last month, we're a little concerned."
Lubbock police Sgt. Marian McGuire said no suspects have been identified.
Religious leader Mohamed El-Moctar said the mosque is considering updating its security system and installing digital security cameras.
"We are a very peaceful community, and we expect to be able to come to worship without any intimidation," El-Moctar said. "It's really disturbing for the community because we have a service late at night sometimes."
Members of Lubbock's Muslim community estimate the local population of Muslims to be between 500 and 700 people. Membership at the mosque is about 150 people.
The rash of vandalism follows last month's completion of a renovation and expansion at the mosque….
http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/news/state/15852247.htm
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