New Mexico (US) reinforces police presence in response to fourth murder of Muslim men

Aug. 7 () –

The governor of the state of New Mexico, Michelle Lujan Grisham, announced Saturday that she will strengthen the police presence in Albuquerque, after the fourth Muslim man was murdered this Friday in recent months.

State Police will be on patrol in Albuquerque, and are working in close coordination with the Albuquerque Police Department and the FBI to provide support as needed, the governor’s office said in a press release.

Previously, the police force confirmed the murder of a Muslim man whose identity has not been revealed. According to investigations, the police have indications that the murder may be linked to the shooting death of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain on Monday, as well as the murder of Aftab Hussein on July 26 — six days before the death of Afzaal Hussain — and Mohammad Ahmadi in November 2021.

In less than two weeks, three of the victims would have died.

“I am angry and saddened that this is happening in New Mexico, a place that prides itself on diversity of culture and thought. This is not who we are,” lamented Lujan Grisham.

Thus, he has assured that there will be justice, while noting that the authorities are “using all resources to apprehend the killer or killers.” “In addition, we will continue to do everything possible to support the Muslim community during this difficult time,” he added.