NYC religious leader allegedly sexually abused 10-year-old girls inside mosque – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Jamaica, Queens — Authorities arrested Tajul Islam, a 55-year-old religious leader at a local mosque, on charges stemming from the alleged sexual abuse of two 10-year-old girls inside the house of worship.[1][2] The incidents occurred over a short period last week, prompting a swift response from the New York Police Department’s Queens Child Abuse Squad.[3] Investigators now urge anyone with information to come forward amid concerns over additional potential victims.[4]
Allegations Surface from Mosque Incidents
Prosecutors detailed the accusations in a criminal complaint filed after the victims reported the abuse. On April 21, between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., Islam allegedly approached one 10-year-old girl inside the Masjid Bilal Queens Islamic Center at 121-03 Sutphin Boulevard and grabbed her breast while touching her inner thigh.[1] A similar assault took place on April 27 around 6 p.m., when he reportedly subjected another 10-year-old girl to the same actions in the storefront mosque, located two blocks west of Baisley Pond Park.[2]
The charges encompass four counts each of first-degree sexual abuse, forcible touching, and endangering the welfare of a child. Islam resided at the mosque, where he served in a leadership role, which heightened the shock within the immediate community.[3] No prior arrests appeared in his record, according to available reports.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrest
Detectives from the Queens Child Abuse Squad took Islam into custody on the night of April 27, roughly four hours after the second reported incident. He was booked at the 113th Precinct in Jamaica before facing arraignment the next day.[1] The rapid apprehension followed the victims’ disclosures, underscoring the squad’s focus on child protection cases.
Officers released Islam’s mugshot publicly to identify possible further victims, a standard tactic in such investigations. The NYPD emphasized confidentiality for tipsters, providing multiple channels for information.[2] This approach has proven effective in past cases involving places of worship.
Arraignment and Ongoing Legal Process
Islam entered a not guilty plea during his April 28 appearance in Queens Criminal Court before Judge Sharifa Nasser-Cuellar. The judge set bail at $25,000 cash or $25,000 bond and issued temporary orders of protection barring contact with the victims.[1] He remained due back in court shortly after, as preparations continued for prosecution.
Represented by the Legal Aid Society, Islam’s defense has not issued public statements. Efforts to reach mosque leadership yielded no response, leaving questions about internal handling unanswered for now.[2]
Investigators Seek Community Assistance
With suspicions of more victims, the NYPD issued a broad call for tips through its Sex Crimes Hotline at 212-267-7273 or 646-610-7272, Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS, and online platforms.[4] All submissions remain strictly confidential, encouraging reluctant witnesses to speak.
The case draws attention to vulnerabilities in community spaces, where trust in leaders runs deep. As proceedings advance, the focus stays on justice for the known victims and any others who emerge.
