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New York Police Department hosts reception marking advent of Ramadan

By Mohsin Zaheer, Sada-e-Pakistan, 13 August 2009. Translated from Urdu by Shagufta Khan.

New York Police Department (NYPD) organized a reception for the Muslim
community to mark the advent of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Senior
police officials not only offered their Ramadan greetings to the Muslim
community in advance but also assured the department's fullest cooperation
during the holy month (Ramadan is starting in much of North America on
Saturday, August 22).

A large number of Muslim community leaders, including those from the
Pakistani American community, Imams (prayer leaders) of different mosques
and representatives of different Islamic organizations attended the
reception, which was held at the NYPD headquarters at One Police Plaza.

New York Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly accompanied by senior police
officials attended the reception. Organized by the Hate Crime Unit of the
NYPD, the reception was also attended by a large number of Muslim officers
of the city's police force. The proceedings started with recitation of
verses from the Qur'an by the NYPD's Muslim chaplain Imam Lateef, who also
offered its English translation.

Addressing the reception, Commissioner Kelly said New York City's diversity
was its greatest beauty and strength. He said the NYPD would offer its
fullest cooperation to the Muslim community during Ramadan. He advised the
Muslim community to maintain close relations with the NYPD so that both
sides not only better understood each other but also made New York City
safer through enhanced mutual cooperation. "Protection of life and property
of the citizens is our responsibility", added Commissioner Kelly.

In reply to a question, he said the NYPD was always vigilant and ready to
defeat any threats of terrorism. The head of the Hate Crime Task Force said
there had been considerable drop in hate crimes in the city during the past
six years.

 

In briefs section of Edition 386 20 August 2009

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