An illegal makeshift mosque in the suburb of Champigny, Paris, has caused widespread controversy and frustration among local residents. Numerous reports from residents express feeling overwhelmed, inconvenienced, and concerned for their safety due to the increased noise levels and the influx of worshippers from the illegal mosque. The mosque was established during Ramadan as the existing three mosques in Champigny could not accommodate the large number of Muslims.

Residents of Champigny have been living in the area for many years and have noticed a significant change in their community. According to one resident, the area was once a nice place to live, but the situation has become unbearable in recent years due to the influx of migrants, who are primarily Islamic.

The ReconquÍte Party, a conservative political party in France founded in 2021 by former Presidential candidate Eric Zemmour, was contacted by the residents who expressed their concerns and frustrations about the situation. A spokesperson for the party, Stèphanie, spoke to residents about the issues that the residents were facing, including the inappropriate recitation of evening prayers and the influx of Muslims.

The situation has become so contentious that local media sent reporters to the area to document residents’ concerns. One such reporter visited the area to gather testimonies from residents exasperated by the situation.

“I can’t sleep at night,” said one resident, who wished to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation. “The noise from the mosque is too much. I have to work in the morning, but I can’t get any rest because of the loud prayers and chanting that goes on all night.”

Many residents have even reported feeling unsafe, with one admitting that he no longer leaves his home without his dogs due to the fear of being attacked again.

Source: RAIR Foundation