Kingstanding Islamic Centre Targeted Again in Second Racist Graffiti Attack
The Jami Community and Education Centre in Kingstanding, Birmingham, has been subjected to a second racist graffiti attack within just 48 hours, sparking outrage and increased police patrols in the local area. Worshippers discovered offensive slogans, including "England First," sprayed on the walls of the centre on Kettlehouse Road in the early hours of Good Friday, April 3, 2026.
Fourth Incident in Seven Months
This latest act of vandalism marks the fourth time the facility has been targeted since its owners took over the building seven months ago. It follows a similar incident early on Wednesday, April 1, when a lone figure daubed messages such as "no-one wants you here" and "undercover mosque" on the centre's walls.
During Friday prayers, the Imam and the Board of Trustees urged all worshippers to "respond with dignity and calm" while maintaining vigilance. A spokesperson from the centre expressed that while the community remains resilient, there is a growing and justified frustration among worshippers regarding the repetitive nature of these crimes.
Police Appeal for Information and Step Up Patrols
West Midlands Police have issued an appeal for information after the racist graffiti was sprayed onto the Islamic community and education centre. Officers have further stepped up patrols in the area around the Jami Centre following the incident earlier today.
Chief Insp Vicki Stott from Birmingham Police stated, "Any type of racist or harmful graffiti will not be tolerated and we are committed to identifying and detaining whoever is responsible." Investigators are trawling CCTV from the area and conducting door-to-door enquiries as part of their ongoing efforts.
Due to the nature of the graffiti, police are treating this as racially and religiously aggravated criminal damage. They remain in close contact with leaders and worshippers at the mosque to offer reassurance.
Community and Political Leaders Condemn Attacks
MP Paulette Hamilton, representing Birmingham Erdington, which includes Kingstanding, condemned the attacks, calling them "mindless vandalism and unacceptable." She emphasised that such behaviour does not reflect how residents treat each other in the diverse area she has called home for over 38 years.
Hamilton added, "Good Friday is a special day for Christians, and all residents must feel safe to worship in their local community. We will do everything to ensure these culprits are caught and brought to justice." She urged the community to stand together for a safe and respectful environment.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or use the Live Chat on the police website, quoting crime reference number 20/198964/26.
