The Use of Informants to Target Mosque Goers

by ISNA

Plainfield, IN (March 20, 2009) - Recent reports on the use of informants to target members of a mosque in Southern California have raised serious questions in the Muslim American community and have led some to propose ending all contacts with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) is deeply concerned about this development, and has already contacted the FBI Headquarters to get clarification concerning the allegation of foul play on the part of the FBI informant. Representatives of ISNA met with senior FBI officers and asked the Bureau to open an investigation into the case to ensure that the civil rights of Muslim Americans are protected and the sanctity of the mosque is preserved.

ISNA believes that communications with law enforcement agencies should remain open and it is not in favor of ending contacts with the FBI. The FBI is entrusted with the protection of all citizens from any harm intended by domestic and foreign terrorists and criminals, and all Americans have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that the Bureau fulfills its mandate. Mosques and Islamic centers must do everything possible to prevent anyone with ill intention from using their facilities to harm fellow citizens or plan a terrorist or criminal operation.

ISNA is also committed to defending the constitutional rights and civil liberties of Muslim Americans, and will continue to address all issues of concern to the Muslim American community with representatives of the federal and local government. ISNA rejects the use of agent provocateurs, and will work diligently to ensure that such a practice is shunned by law enforcement agencies.