Muslim cleric says he’s willing to forgive his attackers
A MUSLIM cleric who says he was injured in an alleged hate-crime incident last week has stated that he is willing to forgive his attackers.
Chief Imam Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, who says the assault left him hospitalised with broken teeth and a swollen face, also decried misinformation that he claims is circulating about the incident.
He said he was duped into meeting two people in Tallaght, Dublin, when asked to officiate a marriage ceremony last Thursday night. Under a cover of darkness, the men, who spoke with Irish accents, beat him before fleeing the scene, he said.
However, Dr Al-Qadri said he is prepared to forgive the culprits. He also spoke out against those allegedly spreading misinformation about the incident.
‘I want to reassure you that the gardaí are actively investigating, and I have expressed my intention to communicate with and forgive those responsible,’ he said on X, formerly Twitter.
‘My belief in the power of forgiveness and reconciliation is guiding me in this decision. However, there are also conspiracy theorists spreading false information about the attack. It is disheartening to be a victim of such a crime and then face accusations that it didn’t happen.
‘I urge others to be cautious of misleading narratives and trust that the authorities will pursue justice. As for those who doubt my experience, there will always be sceptics who will find reasons to disbelieve, regardless of evidence provided.’
He said he hopes that the ‘truth will prevail through the ongoing investigation’.
He added: ‘Those asking for pictures of my swollen face as evidence will, once I provide this, then suggest the swelling is a result of make-up and padding and they will also continue to use such pictures as a meme for years to come. So, no thanks!’
Dr Al-Qadri, chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council, expressed his gratitude to those who sent him ‘kind messages of support’. ‘Your encouragement and well wishes have touched my heart during this difficult time,’ he said. Dr Al-Qadri added that he hopes for a ‘swift conclusion to the investigation by the gardaí’. Gardaí have since confirmed that they are investigating the incident. ‘Gardaí are investigating a robbery and assault that occurred in Tallaght, Dublin 24, on Thursday evening, February 15, 2024,’ a spokesman said. ‘One man required medical attention following the incident. ‘Investigations are ongoing at this time.’