December 10, 2015

American Muslim doctor detained by FBI because someone thought he looked scary

Daily Mail, UK - A Muslim doctor who also works as an anti-radicalisation activist was arrested at a Texas airport because passengers thought he looked suspicious.

Dr Bilal Rana, 36, a father of five, was detained by the FBI after a flight from Newark to Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas.

He believes another passenger became scared because of his appearance and reported him to the flight crew.

Dr Bilal Rana, 36, a father of five, was detained by the FBI after a flight from Newark to Houston, Texas He was arrested after landing at Hobby Airport and believes another passenger reported him to flight crew after becoming suspicious of his appearance +4

Dr Rana, an American citizen who has lived in the country since he was one, said 'it hurts' to be profiled because of fear.

He told ABC News: 'It was embarrassing, very embarrassing that I could be assumed to be that type of person.

'It hurts, but I don't profess to be a victim. I understand law enforcement has to do their job and I respect and support them. I always have.'

Dr Rana is the president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association who help to combat radicalisation in young people.

He said he has had lots of support since the arrest on November 15 and wants to use the experience to teach tolerance.

He wrote about his experience in Time magazine and told readers: 'I'm not your enemy. I'm your biggest ally.'

He added: 'I hope you never know what it feels like to have a group of police officers single you out. I hope you never know what it is like to be frisked while standing in front of a plane full of passengers. Dr Rana, an American citizen who has lived in the country since he was one, said 'it hurts' to be profiled because of fear +4

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