Top Muslim Cleric in Tajikistan Injured in Mosque Attack

Sayeedmukarram Abduqodirzoda, Tajikistan's leading Muslim cleric, was injured in a stabbing incident outside a mosque in Dushanbe. The attacker, motivated by 'hooligan motives,' was apprehended by authorities. Abduqodirzoda, who has led the Islamic Council of Ulema since 2010, suffered minor injuries and was released after medical evaluation.

Tajikistan's top Muslim cleric, Sayeedmukarram Abduqodirzoda, sustained injuries during an attack outside a central mosque in Dushanbe on Wednesday, the interior ministry confirmed.

The ministry reported that an individual wielding 'hooligan motives' stabbed Abduqodirzoda following a prayer service at the mosque. The cleric was treated for minor injuries and released after a medical examination.

Authorities have detained the assailant and initiated a criminal investigation. Abduqodirzoda, 61, has chaired the Islamic Council of Ulema, Tajikistan's highest Islamic institution, since 2010. The nation, with a population of 10 million, predominantly follows the Hanafi school of Sunni Islam.

(With inputs from agencies.)