A religious leader based in Queens has been taken into custody following serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving young children. Tajul Islam, 55, was arrested by the NYPD's Queens Child Abuse Squad on Monday.
The suspect served as a religious leader at the Masjid Bilal Queens Islamic Center located in Jamaica.
Authorities allege that the incidents took place throughout the month of April.
According to a criminal complaint, the suspect allegedly targeted 10-year-old girls within the storefront mosque.
The charges filed against him include sexual abuse, forcible touching, and unlawfully dealing with a child.
The investigation was initiated after reports surfaced regarding inappropriate physical contact.
Prosecutors allege that the suspect approached a young girl and touched her inappropriately during a visit to the center.
A second incident involving another 10-year-old victim was reported to have occurred on the same day the suspect was apprehended.
The suspect, who reportedly resided at the mosque, was taken into custody approximately four hours after the second alleged encounter.
During his arraignment on Tuesday, the suspect entered a plea of not guilty to all charges.
Judge Sharifa Nasser-Cuellar ordered him held on a $25,000 bail and issued temporary orders of protection for the victims.
The NYPD is currently urging members of the public to come forward if they have any information regarding these incidents.
Officials have emphasized that the investigation remains active as they seek to determine if there are additional victims.
Community members and those with knowledge of the situation are encouraged to contact the NYPD's Sex Crimes Hotline or the Crime Stoppers tip line.
Maintaining the safety of children within religious and community spaces remains a priority for local law enforcement agencies.
The legal process will continue as the court reviews the evidence presented by the prosecution. Further updates are expected as the case moves through the judicial system in Queens.
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