A frightening security incident at Masjid Maqam mosque in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood raised alarm when an armed man bypassed security during one of the holiest nights of Ramadan. With approximately 300 adults and 150 children inside the gun-free building for late-night prayers, the intruder claimed to be a retired Chicago Police officer and insisted on entering to pray, despite being visibly intoxicated and carrying a loaded weapon.
What Happened at the Mosque
Security director Shabbir Patel described the tense scene: the armed man waved off security staff, removed his shoes, and entered the prayer hall through the back, appearing out of sync with the other worshippers and struggling to stand on his own. When word spread through the Muslim community, worshippers were deeply shaken, with some in tears realizing they had been praying next to a man carrying a loaded gun. Faith leaders immediately filed a police report and banned the individual from returning.
“Oh my God, I was praying with the guy with the loaded gun. People are actually scared and crying.” — Mosque worshippers reacting to the security breach
Mosque Security Response During Ramadan
- The man returned the very next night at 10:45 PM insisting on re-entering, but Chicago Police officers were on hand and confronted him, as captured on cell phone footage
- The mosque deployed full visible security force and contacted both Chicago Police and Cook County Sheriff’s Department to remain on alert throughout Ramadan
- Cook County Sheriff Deputies were stationed alongside extra private security officers
- Worshippers were expected to remain at the mosque until 4:00 AM for what could be Laylat al-Qadr, the holiest night of the year
- Chicago Police did not respond to inquiries about whether the man was actually a retired officer or legally permitted to carry a firearm
