BCMA Statement on Recent Terrorism-related Arrests

Mufti Aasim Rashid, Director of Religion, BCMA 4-24-2013

The BC Muslim Association, on behalf of the Muslim communities of British Columbia, commends the vigilance and efforts of Canadian law enforcement and intelligence agencies in protecting the national security of Canada.

We categorically denounce and condemn any act of criminal violence against innocent civilians in Canada or abroad, and view all individuals or groups party to such activities as criminal and un-Islamic. Islam, like other religions, plainly forbids the killing of innocents. Any radical ideology that endorses bringing harm and terror to innocent civilians is contrary to the teachings of Islam.

We take pride in knowing that most planned acts of terrorism in North America were thwarted with the assistance of conscientious Muslim citizens. We remain committed to assist in the apprehension and removal of all radical elements that challenge the peace of our country, and trust that all parties arrested under suspicion of terrorist acts will be fairly and appropriately dealt with in light of evidence and facts.