Peterborough’s only mosque deliberately set on fire: police

The only mosque in Peterborough, Ontario, has been damaged in a fire that police say was set deliberately.

The fire at the Masjid Al-Salaam Mosque reportedly began late Saturday night. No one was injured.

“Offenses such as this, committed in relation to a place of Worship are taken very seriously and the Police Service will make every attempt to determine who is responsible,” Peterborough Police said in a statement, BuzzFeed Canada reported.

Fire officials said the building suffered heavy smoke damage inside, with little damage evident outside. Damage is estimated at $80,000, The Canadian Press reported. A FundRazr account set up for the mosque by community members has already raised more than $79,000.

There is also a Facebook page where people can show support for the mosque.

Members of the Kawartha Muslim Association say they were inside the building celebrating the birth of a child just 30 minutes before the fire was set.

Mayor Daryl Bennett released a statement Sunday saying the arson in no way represents the feelings of the community.

“Attacking a place of worship is a despicable act,” he wrote, adding Masjid Al-Salaam means “Mosque of Peace,” the Peterborough Examiner reported. “The faith communities are the cornerstones of our city, contributing to the charitable organization and helping those who are less fortunate. I look forward to the re-opening of Masjid Al-Salaam.”