Hawzah News Agency - The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called for a hate crime investigation into an alleged acid attack targeting a 21-year-old Asian-American Muslim woman in Long Island.

On March 17, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Nafiah Ikram, the victim, returned home with her mother. As Ikram was walking to her house, an unknown individual ran up to her and threw what is thought to be battery acid in her face. Ikram immediately felt severe burning pain on her face, neck, and hands and began to scream for help. Ikram’s parents rushed outside to render aid to their daughter. Ikram was rushed to the hospital. She suffered severe burns to her face, eyes, neck, and hands and spent 15 days in the hospital.

The unknown male assailant was wearing a mask and hoodie during the attack. The suspect, who is believed to be 6-feet tall with a “skinny” build, fled the scene in a red 2013-2015 Nissan Altima with fog lights. It is believed that two additional suspects were in the getaway vehicle.  

Ikram’s mother who is a nurse practitioner has been forced to go on leave to take care of her daughter as she recovers from her injuries. Family friends have setup a crowdfunding page to help the family with costs and expenses. Individuals are encouraged to support the family and may do so at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/eqn24y-help-nafiah-acid-attack-survivor-get-justice

Ikram is a 21-year-old student at Hofstra University. She aspires to enter the medical field and is currently employed part time with CVS pharmacy.

In a statement, CAIR-NY Legal Director Ahmed Mohamed said:

“CAIR-NY is disturbed and shocked at the brutality of this crime, and law enforcement must do everything to apprehend the suspects. Our community deserves safety. Amidst the rising hate crimes engulfing the state, it is important that this acid attack by an unknown individual be investigated as a possible hate crime.

“The family and the community at large must learn why this happened. The New York State Hate Crimes Task Force must aid local law enforcement as the search for the suspects enter the second month.

“Nafiah and her family need the support of her community. We ask everyone to keep the family in your prayers and pray that Nafiah makes a full recovery. Anyone with information about this crime should contact the Nassau County Police Department or call in a tip to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-233-TIPS (8477).”

CAIR-New York is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.      

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.