'Moslem terrorists': 'Racist' attack on Islamic school once the set of Byker Grove leaves staff afraid of arson
'Our biggest fear is someone will burn down the building'
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“Racist“ vandalism at an Islamic school in Newcastle where swastikas and anti-Muslim graffiti were daubed on walls has left staff fearful of further attacks.
The words “moslem terorists” [sic] were scrawled on the walls of the building, which was once the set of children’s TV show Byker Grove, and copies of the Qur’an were thrown on the floor.
Muhammed Abdulmuheet, principal of Bahr Academy, said he worries that the building will be attacked by arsonists. The school has been targeted repeatedly by vandals over the years.
He told The Independent: “Our biggest fear now is someone will burn down the building.”
Former members of the cast and crew of Byker Grove have raised nearly £2,000 to help the school.
Mr Abdulmuheet wants to install security cameras at the site to help deter further attacks.
He said: “We need some proper security. We have spoken to the police and they’ve said we’ll work towards security cameras. If we could have some presence on site that would be the best option.”
Northumbria Police is treating the incident, which was discovered on Friday, as a hate crime.
Sergeant Adrian Oakes, of the force’s central engagement team, told Chronicle Live: “This type of mindless vandalism and blatant racism has no place in society and will be dealt with robustly.”
Nick Forbes, Newcastle City Council leader, said on Twitter that he was “outraged” by the attack.
“We must come together as a city to condemn such appalling racist hate crimes,” he said.
Mr Abdulmuheet added that the community support had been “amazing” since the attack.