Police say threats have been made after Regina mosque begins broadcasting call to prayer

Police in Regina say an “enhanced police presence” will be in place around Muslim gathering places in the city after a downtown mosque allegedly received threats over its weekly broadcasts of the adhan – the Islamic call to prayer – through a speaker.

According to police, the amplified call to prayer happens on Fridays over the noon hour, lasting about three minutes. The broadcast follows the requirements laid out in the City of Regina’s bylaws, police added.

Read more:

• Muslim cultural centre in Trois-Rivières, Que., vandalized overnight
• Police leaders warn of rising violence, call for changes after Melville RCMP shooting
• Sandy Bay man charged with attempted murder

“The Regina Police Service is aware of threats being made in relation to this practice and, in response, an enhanced police presence will be visible around Muslim places of gathering,” the police force said in a statement.

“Threats will be taken seriously and investigated under recently enhanced Canadian hate crimes legislation.”

The police force said it issues more than 100 permits for noise amplification to different community groups each year. When considering applications, police said factors like the area, the duration, the time of day and the volume are all considered.

Police said the mosque’s current permit will be in place until July 10, at which point it will be reviewed by both the city and the police force.