The Hounslow Muslim Centre has temporarily closed its doors following a serious stabbing incident near its premises on Hanworth Road on the afternoon of Sunday, 22 June 2025. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched around 2.20 pm after a man in his 20s was seriously injured in a public assault close to various local businesses, including the Centre itself. Though the incident occurred nearby, the Centre’s management was quick to clarify that neither the establishment nor its congregation were involved in the event, stressing that those involved did not enter their premises.

Police responded by setting up a cordon around the area and advised the temporary closure of nearby businesses, including the Muslim Centre, to allow forensic teams to carry out their investigations safely and ensure public safety. Consequently, the Centre suspended prayers and classes until at least the afternoon of Monday, 23 June, with ongoing updates promised via their website and social media channels. The Centre expressed its full cooperation with the Metropolitan Police and commended the emergency services for their rapid intervention. Importantly, the management urged the public to avoid speculation or spreading misinformation on social media and encouraged reporting any instances of Islamophobic abuse to appropriate authorities.

The Hounslow Muslim Centre emphasised its stance that “violence has no place in our community” and reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with partners to foster a safer society. Meanwhile, police continue to appeal for witnesses, requesting anyone with information to contact them or report anonymously through Crimestoppers.

This incident echoes previous cases where Muslim community centres have faced temporary closures following distressing events nearby. For instance, the Islamic Cultural Centre in Clonskeagh, Dublin, closed temporarily after an unprecedented and distressing incident in April 2025. The Centre there implemented a full security review and safety protocol audit, including the deployment of Gardaí and private security guards, before it could consider reopening. Similar measures reflect the delicate balance such centres must maintain between serving their communities and ensuring the safety and security of all those who visit.

The closure in Hounslow aligns with local safety practices, amid ongoing changes in the area including a temporary road closure on Grove Road from 23 June 2025 to facilitate statutory works. The overlap between community safety, public investigations, and local infrastructure adjustments marks a challenging period for the neighbourhood.

Following the temporary closure, the Hounslow Muslim Centre has since announced its reopening, expressing gratitude to the community for their support during the brief suspension of services. The Centre's statement highlights themes of unity and resilience amid adversity, reaffirming its role as a sanctuary for worship and education.

While a stabbing incident in the Hounslow area is not unprecedented—another occurred near the Treaty Centre in August 2024, with ongoing investigations—the Centre’s management is keen to distinguish this recent event as unrelated to their institution or activities, reinforcing community solidarity and safety going forward.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services