Bronx Imam Targeted in Abduction Attempt and Assault Outside Banglabazar Jame Masjid During Ramadan

An alarming incident unfolded outside the Banglabazar Jame Masjid in the Bronx during the sacred month of Ramadan, as a young imam became a victim of a violent onslaught and a foiled abduction attempt by unknown assailants. The imam, identified as 22-year-old Omar Faruqe, spoke out about the harrowing ordeal, describing how three men wearing ski masks targeted him as he was en route to lead prayer at the mosque. ABC7 New York reported the imam saying, "They were asking some questions, and they showed me a picture of it. A picture of some people wearing ski masks of course, and I was like, 'no it's not me.'" Clearly shaken, Faruqe recalled the confusion he felt during the attack.

The suspects, who Faruqe insists were strangers to him, initiated an aggressive encounter that dangerously escalated. According to PIX11 News, the assailants attempted to force an imam into their vehicle, with Faruqe saying, “He asked if that was me and asked me questions what’s my name and if that’s me in the pictures. They said you get in the car – we have more questions and pushed me around. Beating me up. A headlock, and they put half my body in there and beat me more.” During the skirmish, the mosque treasurer, Iqbal Hussain, sustained an injury while coming to Faruqe's aid, resulting in a bloody nose.

In what was a terrifying moment for the congregation, worshippers quickly gathered to thwart the attackers' plan, with Hussain playing a crucial role. Hussain, the man with a bloody consequence for his heroic actions, described to ABC7 New York, "Thank god I save him and they run." His swift intervention allowed Faruqe to avoid being taken away in the assailants' black Chrysler minivan, as they fled the scene before the police's arrival.

Despite the chaos, mosque leaders do not believe the mosque was specifically targeted. Furthermore, Faruqe expressed his belief that the assault was a case of mistaken identity, stating to PIX11 News, "I have never seen them. I don't know who they are. I was like is this even me? Am I who you’re looking for?" This sentiment was echoed by the continued presence of police who kept a watchful eye over the mosque's congregation, ensuring their right to worship in peace. Recovering from minor injuries, Faruqe finds solace in his community's support and unruffled spirit, “I’m not worried. I feel safe all the time. Around these people, they’re my people. The Muslim community- I love them, and they’ll always support me. This never happened in my life. It’s shocking. I hope it never happens to anyone else. Cause it’s terrible actually that it happened.” The search for the assailants remains ongoing as the police investigate the assault and encourage anyone with information to contact Crimestoppers.