Vandals who targeted the Taunton Islamic Centre in a pre-dawn attack are being strongly condemned by the local MP, Gideon Amos. The incident, which involved smashing the windows of the mosque and adjoining community centre on Tower Lane, occurred around 6:40 a.m. on Saturday, September 6.
Mr. Amos, representing Taunton and Wellington, described the perpetrators as “weak and cowardly” and emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable in the community. He was particularly concerned given the attack happened just before a children’s event scheduled for later that morning.
Sharing images of the damage, which showed shattered glass on the front door, Mr. Amos assured residents that those responsible would face the full extent of the law. “The people who attacked and damaged our local community centre and mosque are not welcome in our town,” he stated. “They aren’t patriots. I completely condemn their actions.”
READ MORE: New Special Needs Units to Open in Four Somerset Schools by 2026
READ MORE: Somerset Council to Invest Nearly £3.4 Million in Temporary Housing for Families
He also noted his support for the affected families, having visited the site to show solidarity. The Avon and Somerset Police are actively investigating and have issued an appeal to the public for information. They have released CCTV images of two men believed to be connected to the vandalism.
Residents who recognize these individuals or who have any relevant CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage from the time around the incident are urged to contact the police at 101 quoting reference 5225251536, or to use the online appeals form. Mr. Amos reiterated that anyone who damages parts of the community will be caught and face legal consequences to protect the safety and harmony of Taunton.