….Were Simultaneous Operations Necessary?

Fareed Ahmad

Ten hours later, the Ahmad women, including minors, were released without any explanation or apology from the officers; the men were released late Monday night. The officers claimed the search was prompted by suspicions of conspiracy to commit murder and damage to property by Ahmad family members. But their licensed firearms were returned, but not their travel documents or electronic devices. So why were six simultaneous raids on the Ahmads necessary?

Fareed Ahmad, Claims Unlawfully Arrest

“My weapons which are all licensed of course were returned and this confused me because if you are saying that I am being investigating for some crime, why would you give back the weapons, You understand me, but take all the electronic devices? Books, passports…one of my brothers’ passport; he has to fly out in the next couple of days…they seized his passport also. So all of this is very confusing; all we want is some answers, explanation, something. And we are literally calling the media and begging somebody in the public or the department, what the hell is going on. Sorry to use what word.”

Duane Moody

“What do you feel is the reason why they had you guys detained? I believe you said that there were other families detained as well.”

Fareed Ahmad

“Yes, when we went to the police station, I learnt and I saw one other Muslim brother that I am familiar with and I heard that another Muslim sister’s family was also there. So the only thing I could conclude is that it was something in relation to being a Muslim and the very harsh, the very hurtful part about this, apart from all the damages I’ve been through, is the fact that this is the month of Ramadan; it is our most sacred month.”

The family is in the process of seeking legal advice for redress in the courts.