Washington, (SM/IINA) : The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), called on state and federal law enforcement authorities to investigate a possible bias motive for vandalism targeting a halal market in Portland city in the U.S. State of Maine.

Police say a white male wearing a hooded sweatshirt smashed six large windows at the Ahram Halal Market on Saturday. There was no evidence of a break-in. The vandalism is currently being investigated as aggravated criminal mischief. “Given the recent spike in anti-Muslim incidents nationwide, it would only be prudent to investigate a possible bias motive for this vandalism,” said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper.

He said CAIR had noted an unprecedented spike in hate incidents targeting Muslims and other minority groups since the November 8 election.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.