Muslim woman too afraid to leave home after her car is set on fire in suspected hate crime

A Muslim woman is too afraid to leave her home after her car was set on fire in a suspected hate crime.

She told police she believes she was targeted because she is the only Muslim living in the street.

Petrol was poured underneath her car then set alight in Basildon, Essex.

The attack happened at about 10.45pm on June 7 and police are treating it as a hate crime.

Essex Police said an investigation by the fire brigade had confirmed the blaze was started deliberately.

Sidra Naeem, an Islamic adviser for Essex Police, said the woman who was targeted is now scared to leave her home.

MORE: Lorry drivers ‘too scared’ to check for migrants at Calais
MORE: Teenager, 16, charged with rape of girl, 8, in Manchester park

‘Petrol was put under the car and it exploded in front of her eyes,’ she told the Basildon Echo.

‘It was reported by a couple of people to the police, the fire brigade also know, all the neighbours know and the race hate panel was also notified.

‘She was the only Muslim person in that whole row of houses. She hasn’t come out of her house ever since — she’s too scared and worried.’

Essex Police is carrying out additional patrols of the area to provide reassurance.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Pudney said: ‘We will not tolerate hate crime in any form.

‘If you are a victim of hate crime – whether that offence takes place online or in the street – it is important that you report that to us so we can help you.

‘Anyone carrying out hate crime in any form will be dealt with robustly, investigated and prosecuted.’

(Picture: Rex)