Serious and organised crime is one of the deadliest security threats that continuously invades our communities and consequently our economy. It leads to more deaths in the UK each year than all other national security threats combined. Serious and organised criminals brutally target those who are most vulnerable, ruining lives and devastating communities, costing the country nearly £37 billion each year.

As a mosque in the heart of our community, we want to raise awareness of the complexities of serious and organised crime and how criminals reap their benefits to fund their glamorous lifestyles, leaving victims to suffer the consequences. We know there is a clear and direct link between the drugs which are sold on our streets and violence which communities will see on a daily basis.

In collaboration with our Imams, local young people and the authorities, The Bahu Trust has developed ‘an easy to understand’ educational resource. The aim of this community awareness guide is to increase the community’s knowledge of what serious and organise crime looks like, how it impacts people around us and who who can turn to for support.

Cover

Download resource here

A lot of serious and organised crime is hidden and unreported meaning the true scale is very likely to be much higher than we already know. Criminals prey on those who are the most vulnerable in their communities and exploit them, sell deadly substances to them and steal their data ruthlessly for their own financial gains. They use strong intimidation tactics and instil fear in their victims to help them hide their activities and profits, while investing in further criminality.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“When any of you sees an injustice/evil let him change it with his hand. If he is not able to do so, then let him change it with is tongue. And if he is not able to do so then let him hate it with his heart though that is the least of his faith”
(Sahih Muslim).

Everyone has a duty to stand up against injustices that are taking place on our streets. We will work with our community, partners and other faith communities to support our awareness campaign to reduce the vulnerability of our young people, our siblings and our families from being drawn in to a life of crime.