Bangladeshi Imam Arrested in New York Over Child Sexual Abuse Allegations

A Bangladeshi-origin imam has been arrested in New York over allegations of sexually abusing two young girls inside a mosque in the city’s Bangladeshi-populated Jamaica neighborhood.

The Queens Child Abuse Squad of the New York Police Department (NYPD) arrested 65-year-old Tajul Islam following allegations that he sexually abused two 10-year-old girls on April 21 and April 27 at Masjid Bilal Queens Islamic Center on Sutphin Boulevard.

According to complaints filed in Queens Criminal Court, the alleged incidents took place separately inside the mosque.

During a court hearing on April 28, Tajul Islam pleaded not guilty. However, prosecutors brought 12 charges against him, including first-degree sexual abuse, forcible touching, and endangering the welfare of a child.

Court documents allege that the accused inappropriately touched a 10-year-old girl inside the mosque on April 21. Authorities further said he allegedly sexually harassed another 10-year-old girl in a similar manner on April 27. He was arrested later that same day.

According to a report by The Financial Express, citing bdnews24.com, the accused was later released on bail.

The court set bail at $25,000 cash or bond and issued emergency protective orders for the alleged victims.

The NYPD said the investigation is ongoing and expressed concern that there could be additional victims. Police urged anyone with information to contact investigators at 212-267-7273 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-8477.

The incident has sparked criticism and concern within New York’s Bangladeshi community, according to local reports.