Local imams want investigation into Abdullah shooting

Oralandar Brand-Williams / The Detroit News

A local group of imams is calling for an independent investigation into last month's fatal shooting of Detroit Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah in an FBI raid

The imams' committee of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Michigan (CIOM) today also called for "a fair and speedy adjudication for those who were arrested related to this raid. Abdullah was killed during the FBI action on Oct. 28.

"Muslims, as well as people of all faiths and good conscience, agree that individuals or groups are innocent until proven guilty," read a statement from the council. "The Islamic faith supports fairness to all and condemns extremism."

Abdullah was shot to death during the FBI raid at a Dearborn warehouse. Eleven others were also investigated and arrested in connection with the case. The federal complaint against the men included several charges, including conspiracy to sell stolen goods.

The FBI said Abdullah had an anti-government ideology. His colleagues and acquaintances have denied the allegations.

The imams' committee also today called on "all law enforcement agencies not to use excessive force or act out of unfounded suspicion and exaggerated fear," read the statement. "We also urge federal law enforcement, media and other agencies not to participate in rhetoric that may serve to marginalize an entire faith simply because some members of that faith are implicated in alleged criminal activities."

Later this afternoon, a community meeting will be held at the Muslim Center on West Davison in Detroit to address community concerns over the shooting. One of Abdullah's sons and other leaders in the Detroit Muslim community, as well as non-Muslim community activists, will speak at the events.

bwilliams@detnews.com (313) 222-2027