Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia Aftab Malik has expressed his disgust at the latest vile Islamophobic threats directed towards worshippers at Lakemba Mosque in Sydney’s southwest.

It is the second time in less than a month that online threats have been made at a mosque which have referenced the 2019 Christchurch attacks which resulted in the deaths of 51 innocent Muslims.

“This is another deeply disturbing example of anti-Muslim hate in Australia and it needs to stop,” Mr Malik said.

“Following the recent spate of Islamophobic incidents including the bashings of women at a Melbourne shopping centre and threats towards other mosques in Sydney, the Australian Muslim community is understandably feeling anxious, fearful, and concerned.

“I demand our leaders and authorities ensure the safety of the Muslim community is treated as a top priority and that appropriate security arrangements are put in place around our mosques.

“I urge the NSW Police to investigate this incident thoroughly and call on leaders to condemn these threats and make sure they are doing everything in their power to combat Islamophobia.

“This incident is particularly worrying ahead of the last 10 nights of Ramadan when the numbers of worshippers at mosques swells. I am attending Lakemba Mosque this afternoon to show my support for the local community.”

“As a society, we need to challenge a permissive environment which allows people to make such horrifying threats towards their fellow Australians.”

Lakemba Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Australia and attracts tens of thousands of worshippers.

Anyone with information is asked to call Campsie Police Area Command or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.