Shocking Attack at Dudley Road Mosque: Man in Seventies Sprayed with Unknown Substance and Set on Fire
Brutal Assault Near Dudley Road Mosque
Mohammed Rayaz, a man in his seventies, was viciously attacked as he left Dudley Road Mosque on Shenstone Road. Around 7pm on Monday, he was sprayed with an unknown substance before his jacket was deliberately set alight. The horrific assault left him with life-changing injuries. He remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Suspect Arrested as Police Launch Full Investigation
Police swiftly arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder following the attack. Counter-terrorism officers have joined the investigation as inquiries continue. MP Shabana Mahmood praised the local community for their vital role in identifying the suspect. She said, “If it weren’t for the community, this arrest wouldn’t have happened so quickly.”
Community Rallies Ahead of Ramadan
In response to the shock attack just before Ramadan, MP Mahmood organised a community walkabout on Wednesday to reassure local Muslims. Local solicitor and StreetWatch member Shahbon Hussain stressed the need for more preventative measures within mosques. He urged close cooperation with police and Birmingham City Council to prevent future incidents.
Public Appeal: Help Crack the Case
The attack has left residents shaken. Mohammed Abbasim, a neighbour, said, “I was shocked to hear someone I knew was targeted like this.” Police are urging anyone with CCTV, doorbell, or video footage related to the incident to come forward.
You can submit evidence directly to the police via this link.
If you have any information, contact the police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
