A second imam of Pakistani origin is also facing the same charges in Barcelona.
Rabat – Two imams are facing sexual assault charges and for allegedly abusing minors at mosques in Barcelona, Spanish news outlet La Vanguardia reported.
One of the imams is a 46-year old Moroccan national, who has been released on bail pending trial.
The imam allegedly assaulted a 12-year old boy, who used to take religion classes four or five times a week in the mosque.
According to La Vanguardia, the mosque, which is located in the Clot neighborhood of Barcelona, are mainly from Morocco. The mosque is located in the Clot neighborhood of Barcelona.
“It is reported that the child was assaulted twice since April 30, 2017.”
The Spanish news outlet said that the victim was first assaulted in a prayer room and in a study room.
“He [the imam] grabbed him by the collarbones and neck and had his way,” the Spanish news outlet reported.
The imam also threatened the victim and gave him money to buy candy in order to prevent him from telling his family.
The second alleged suspect is from Pakistan. The Pakistani imam is allegedly in prison for sexually abusing a 9-year old boy who was taking religion classes at the mosque located in Ciutat Vella, a district in Barcelona.
The Pakistani suspect has been in custody since November 2017.
The trial of both imams will take place after summer, the Spanish news outlet added. If found guilty, they will face deportation after serving three quarters of their prison sentence.
