Commotion Breaks Out Among Musollis at Arafa Islamic Center in Jamaica
A heated commotion and verbal altercation erupted among musollis at the Arafa Islamic Center (AIC) in Jamaica, New York, on Friday following Jumu’ah prayers. The situation unfolded inside the mosque, where tensions escalated rapidly.
During the incident, Amir Khan, Chairman of the mosque committee, became the target of intense anger from a section of Musollis. Sources said the unrest began after the issue of repaying an approximately $3 million Qard-e-Hasana (interest-free loan) provided by Amir Khan for the mosque was raised, prompting strong reactions from some congregants.
According to mosque sources, the Islamic Center initially began its activities in a small rented space. With support from the local Muslim community, three plots of land were later purchased, and a well-structured mosque was built. Amir Khan is said to have played a leading role in the establishment and development of the mosque.
Musollis noted that Amir Khan has long been involved in welfare activities for the Muslim community in New York. Motivated by service to Islam, he took a key role in founding the Arafah Islamic Center in Jamaica. Alongside donations from general musollis, he personally financed nearly $3 million as an interest-free loan to support the mosque’s construction.
Despite efforts to keep the community united, Amir Khan faced dissatisfaction from a section of the community during the incident. Eyewitnesses said tensions rose immediately after the repayment issue was mentioned, leading to loud arguments. Other musollis stepped in to calm the situation and prevent further escalation.
A former mosque director alleged that from the beginning, a particular group has been attempting to discredit Amir Khan. He claimed there is a deliberate conspiracy to remove him from mosque management and that misinformation is being spread against him.
Although an unpleasant situation developed inside the mosque, police were not informed. Commenting on the matter, Amir Khan said that involving law enforcement could create fear and misunderstanding among musollis. He emphasized his desire for the Muslim community to set aside differences and remain united in serving the House of Allah and humanity.
Meanwhile, general Musolli believe that personal disputes and divisions should be avoided and that collective efforts are necessary for the development of the mosque and the welfare of the community.
