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Asian family 'chased out of ice cream shop and called monkeys’ after row over face mask

The alleged racists incident took place at Charlotte's Ice Cream Parlour in Dewsbury. (Reach)
The alleged racists incident took place at Charlotte's Ice Cream Parlour in Dewsbury. (Reach)

Police in West Yorkshire are investigating an alleged racist incident after an Asian family claimed they were hurled with abuse by the owner of an ice cream shop.

Mohammed Abubakar Qasim said in a Facebook post that his family – including his three young children – were called “monkeys” after a row about face masks at Charlotte's Ice Cream Parlour in Dewsbury.

In the post, Qasim explained that while his family were wearing face coverings, he was not wearing one because he is medically exempt.

Mohammed Abubakar Qasim claims he and his family were racially abused. (MEN Media/Reach)
Mohammed Abubakar Qasim claims he and his family were racially abused. (MEN Media/Reach)

After attempting to show his exemption card, Qasim claims the owner told the family to leave while racially abusing them.

He wrote: "Bear in mind other customers were not wearing masks for whatever or no reason.”

West Yorkshire Police have confirmed they are investigating the allegations and are asking witnesses to come forward.

The Facebook post from Mohammed Abubakar Qasim about the alleged incident. (Facebook/Mohammed Abubakar Qasim)
The Facebook post from Mohammed Abubakar Qasim about the alleged incident. (Facebook/Mohammed Abubakar Qasim)

Inspector Chris Hughes, of the Dewsbury and Mirfield neighbourhood policing team, said: “We are continuing to investigate this matter and have taken a full statement from the victim.”

Speaking after the alleged incident, Qasim told Mirror Online: "For me, I’m (now) constantly monitoring how people are looking at me without a mask.”

Charlotte's Ice Cream Parlour has on-site farm animals, a giant slide and tractor buggy rides for small children.

The owner of the parlour declined to comment, according to Yorkshire Live.

Anyone who can assist police enquiries are urged police by calling 101 and referencing police crime number 131200419948.

Information can also be given online or if you would like to remain anonymous, contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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