Colorado Mosques Increase Security in Wake of New Zealand Attack

A terror attack targeting Muslims in New Zealand has prompted mosques in Colorado to increase their security indefinitely.

• By Jessica Davis
• Mar 22, 2019

A terror attack targeting Muslims in New Zealand has prompted mosques in Colorado to increase their security indefinitely. According to Muslim leaders, threats are a common occurrence and they can’t take changes on safety.

At least 50 people were killed in mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand on March 15. An additional 50 people were injured.

The largest mosque in Colorado, Masjid Abu Bakr, has increased law enforcement and private security presence outside the building.

“If something happens to one, it happens to all of us,” said Iman Jodeh of the Colorado Muslim Society.

Jodeh said police officers and sheriff’s deputies were present inside and outside of her mosque in the wake of the New Zealand attack. She said that a high level of security is an unfortunate new reality.

“They went out of their way to make sure that they provided a female lieutenant to stand with the women worshipers as they entered,” Jodeh said.

Further details on increased security measures have been kept confidential for the protection of worshippers. Officials said there are more security professionals on site at Colorado mosques amid the growing tension and threats.

“It’s becoming more commonplace, and we need to stand together in solidarity to say, 'Not in my name,'" Jodeh said.

In addition to boosting security, mosque leaders said overall vigilance has been vital to alerting people of potential threats. Worshippers are encouraged to follow the traditional advice of “hear or see something, say something.”