Teenager charged after Aberdeen mosque vandalised

A teenager has been charged after an Aberdeen mosque was vandalised while worshippers were inside.

Paint was thrown at the door of the building in the Spital area of the city on Saturday evening, and a window was smashed.

Police Scotland said they were treating the incident as a “hate crime”.

“Following an investigation into reports of vandalism at a mosque in Spital, Aberdeen, officers have arrested and charged a 17-year-old male,” a statement said.

It added: “The male has been released on an undertaking and will appear at court at a later date.”

Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre thanked neighbours who helped with the clean-up and sent messages of support.

A mosque spokesperson said: “The rock went through the window and shattered. Everybody was fine but people are a bit shaken.”

A social media statement confirmed: “There were two incidents at Spital Mosque where paint was thrown at the door and pavement area and a few hours later a rock thrown through a window.

“Following these attacks kind neighbours helped clean up the mess, and others sent messages of support. We are very grateful to them.

“Meanwhile, Aberdeen Mosques would like to assure all members of the community that in light of these incidents, all mosques are taking additional security measures as well as being assured of support from the police.”

The statement added: “Police will be performing additional patrols around the mosques during prayers and other times. Please be alert and remain vigilant, but do not be alarmed and continue with your efforts and prayers.”