HCWG Condemns Acid Attack in Tzaneen – Hate Crimes Working Group

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^{The Hate Crimes Working Group Condemns the Tzaneen Acid Attack}

The South African Hate Crimes Working Group condemns in the strongest terms the acid attack on a Muslim worshipper outside Masjid us Salaam in Tzaneen on 21 February 2026.

The attack, which took place during the holy month of Ramadan, targeted an individual walking home from evening prayers—an act that not only caused physical harm but undermined the sanctity of a sacred time and space. No one should fear for their safety when practising their faith or returning home from worship.

While the motive has not yet been confirmed, the impact on the Muslim community is clear. As a minority community, Muslims in South Africa are particularly vulnerable to acts that erode their sense of safety and belonging. Incidents such as this deepen fear and insecurity, especially when they occur in or around places of worship.

This attack forms part of a broader pattern of concerning incidents affecting the Muslim community, alongside a documented rise in Islamophobic rhetoric, including online. For example: an attempted mosque bombing, acts of vandalism, the killing of a Muslim woman, the stabbing of her family, and the assassination of an Imam, including threats towards those who followed him. We are further concerned by reports that such narratives may be deliberately amplified to sow division within South African society.

We also affirm that LGBTQIA+ Muslims, who may face exclusion or hostility both within and outside their communities, are equally entitled to protection, dignity, and safety. Hate in any form, from any source, is unacceptable.

We call on the South African Police Service to prioritise the investigation of this attack and other hate crimes, in line with the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act. We further urge social media platforms to take responsibility for addressing harmful and divisive content that contains Islamaphobic or homophobic rhetoric.

We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community. No community should have to fear coming home from prayer.

We extend our wishes to the Muslim community for a peaceful, safe and joyful Eid.