Vandalism reported in Pearson Airport’s Muslim prayer area being investigated as hate crime

Peel police are investigating vandalism discovered in the Pearson Airport’s Muslim prayer space as a possible hate crime.

The airport says the act of vandalism occurred in the Terminal 3 Aviation Interfaith Ministry and was discovered Friday night.

A statement from the National Council of Canadian Muslims says the room was in disarray, with copies of Quran thrown onto the floor and cupboards destroyed.

“This is incredibly disturbing – and as such, deserves a full investigation,” read the statement posted on Facebook.

In a statement, Pearson airport officials say they are collaborating with the investigation of the “deplorable” crime.

“Everyone at the Greater Toronto Airports Authority strongly condemns any acts that attempt to erode freedom of belief and expression,” read the statement.

“To everyone travelling for essential purposes and arriving at Toronto Pearson today, but especially to our Muslim brothers and sisters, we ask that you do not let the acts of a few overshadow the values that Canadians hold dear.”