During the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, an Islamic center at Rutgers University in New Jersey was vandalized, according to the authorities, who have claimed that they are investigating the event as a hate crime. The incident occurred on the day that the Muslim holiday is celebrated.
In accordance with a statement that was issued by Atiya Aftab, the chairwoman of the group, a Palestinian flag was destroyed, and the windows of a building that housing the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University were also shattered.
In addition, artwork was smashed, televisions and printers were broken, and the entire premises was broken into. "This heinous act, which took place on our holy day, is unquestionably fueled by Islamophobia, and it is unquestionably a hate crime targeting our Muslim population at Rutgers," Aftab further explained.
Rutgers University Police Department is conducting an investigation into a burglary, criminal mischief, and prejudice crime that occurred at the center in New Brunswick at approximately 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday, according to a statement that was provided by the department.
The statement also stated that the department is conducting the investigation. There was no one present at the place at the time of the event, according to the information that was provided by the administration.
Additionally, the Attorney General of New Jersey, Matt Platkin, referred to the event as "appalling" and announced that his office is attempting to examine it in conjunction with other officials.
Platkin made a statement in which he stated, "Let me make it abundantly clear: New Jersey will not tolerate acts of hatred directed toward the Muslim community." Several other statements were also included in the statement.
Platkin's office reported a recent spike in the number of cases of bias that had happened around the state, which led to the occurrence of this event.
Follow for more updates