The imam of the Annour association of Ripoll was arrested last Thursday after being reported for an alleged sexual assault on a minor during classes at the municipality's mosque. The arrest has been confirmed by the City Council, which has reported that the alleged victim is a student at the religious center.
Imam released with restraining order
According to municipal sources, the imam has been released with an order prohibiting him from approaching within 150 meters of the minor. The mayor Sílvia Orriols, from Aliança Catalana, has explained that the complaint was filed by the minor's parents and that the Annour association has already expelled the imam from his position.
The alleged assault, under investigation, would have consisted of groping during the classes taught by the detainee at the mosque. The City Council has made all legal services and psychological and social support resources available to the family.
Institutional unease over lack of communication
The mayor has expressed her displeasure at not having received official information from the Ministry of the Interior about the arrest. Orriols has pointed out that she learned of the events through comments from members of the Muslim community of Ripoll.
"They have been informed of the arrest due to comments from members of the Muslim community of Ripoll, but she has expressed indignation because the Ministry of the Interior has not communicated it to the City Council" - Sílvia Orriols, mayor of Ripoll
In conversation with councilwoman Núria Parlon, the mayor was informed that the protocol established was followed. Both parties have agreed that, from now on and taking into account the background in Ripoll, any similar event will be notified to the town hall.
Background and additional measures
The Annour association was already known almost a decade ago for the connection of another imam, Abdelbaki Es-Satty, with the radicalization of the cell responsible for the attacks of August 17, 2017 in Barcelona and Cambrils.
Orriols has asked the Local Police to investigate if there are other possible abuses committed by the imam, who had been in Ripoll for about five years. So far, it has not been possible to obtain the version of the Annour association.
The mayor has highlighted the parents' bravery in reporting the events and has reiterated the municipal commitment to support the affected family.