11/08/2019
Police in Norway are investigating a shooting at a mosque as a possible act of terrorism.
An un-named gunman opened fire on the Al-Noor Islamic Centre, on the outskirts of the capital Oslo, on Saturday. Mohammad Rafiq, a 65-year-old member of the congregation, overpowered the gunman.
The suspect, described as a white Norwegian aged about 20, was arrested after the attack.
According to Rune Skjold, who is leading the police operation, the suspect had been known to police, but was not someone with a criminal background. The man who was arrested appears to have held 'far-right' and 'anti-immigrant' views, which may well hold a clue as to his motive for his, ultimately unsuccessful, terror attack.
The suspect is believed to have posted on an online forum hours before the attack. The post made reference to a 'race war' and heaped praise on the gunman who killed 51 people in mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand in March 2019.
Was this young Norwegian driven to his extreme views of hatred and, in turn, to his act of terror by simply becoming aware of other similar acts. Or, was he radicalised more actively and deliberately by people determined to spread hatred and a irrational mistrust of those who are different than themselves.
These questions need to be answered, if we are to have any chance at defeating the rising scourge of xenophobia that is spreading across much of the supposed 'civilised' world.
Is it time for children and young adults to be taught about tolerance and inclusion, in their schools and colleges? Should adults who have been found to have committed hate crimes, all be required to attend counselling sessions to help them recognise how wrong their extreme, bigoted views are and help them move on. with more productive lives.
Something must be done to bring an end to the cycle of hate.
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