As the 2024 U.S. elections approach, the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) is actively meeting with community organizations to prepare for potential violence or civil unrest during and after the elections. The latest meeting, facilitated by community engagement specialist Sgt. Mukhtar Abdikadir took place at the Majid Towfiq Islamic Center in Minneapolis on November 3, 2024, bringing together approximately two dozen leaders from various Muslim organizations.
Imam Mohamed Mursal, Board Chair of the Islamic Association of North America (IANA), and Sheikh Yussuf Abdulle were among the attendees. IANA is a national organization representing 41 centers across the U.S., 15 located in Minnesota. Also present were Council Member Jamal Osman and Representative Hodan Hassan, all of whom expressed their commitment to ensuring the safety of Masajid centers during the election period.
“We need to be vigilant and on high alert during these difficult times,” said Council Member Jamal Osman, emphasizing the city’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Minneapolis residents.
The discussions focused on the safety of places of worship during and after the elections, highlighting the need for risk assessment and the implementation of security plans. “Public safety is essential in this unusual time,” Mukhtar stated, underscoring the importance of vigilance. He noted that city leaders in Minneapolis have been conducting similar meetings with leaders from churches and synagogues to address potential homeland security threats during the election season.
Mukhtar reassured attendees that, according to information from the FBI and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (MBCA), there are currently no known threats. “We work with all security agencies, and there are no known threats at this time,” he said, adding that the MPD is closely monitoring social media for any signs of threats, unrest, or Islamophobia.
Imam Mohamed Mursal expressed gratitude to the police department for its proactive approach to ensuring the safety of places of worship. He urged attendees to remain vigilant and to inform their communities to report any suspicious activity to ensure the safety of congregants. “We have to ensure the safety of worshippers because it’s our responsibility as leaders,” Imam Mursal emphasized.
Concerns were raised about specific threats, including the possibility of “swatting” incidents at local centers and polling places, as well as threats directed toward poll workers and Imams. The risk of violence is believed to be heightened the day after the elections, a sentiment echoed by several attendees. Mukhtar also referenced a recent incident involving a suspicious package containing white powder, reported on September 27, which heightened safety concerns.
During the meeting, several safety tips for Masajid centers were proposed to enhance security. Recommendations included ensuring adequate lighting in all areas, installing security cameras at entrances and exits, and employing safety personnel to patrol the premises every ten minutes. Mukhtar also recommended that each center designate a point of contact for emergency issues.
The meeting addressed the issue of Islamophobia and harassment, encouraging attendees to report any suspicious activity immediately. “If you experience harassment, such as receiving multiple unwanted calls, please contact us so we can assess the situation,” Mukhtar urged.
Sgt. Abdikadir assured attendees that the MPD remains committed to collaborating with community leaders to promote safety and will do everything possible to ensure all Minneapolis residents’ security.
