In an unfortunate incident, the imam of American University of Sharjah (AUS) was slightly injured in an altercation that occurred outside his residence on campus today, May 8, 2013. The alleged assailant was a visitor to the university campus and was in an agitated state at the time of the incident.

According to university officials campus security and police responded at once and the alleged perpetrator was apprehended. The campus was sealed for a brief period of time and none of the faculty, students and staff were in any danger at any time.

"It is of course most unfortunate whenever any member of our community is injured in an episode of this type, and I am gratified that the injuries suffered were superficial and that no serious damage was done," said Dr. Thomas Hochstettler, Acting Chancellor and Provost.

"It is important to note that no students, no faculty, and no staff were at any time in any danger. I want further to congratulate and commend the security guards and police for their most timely and effective intervention. Our campus is an extremely safe environment for the students and families who live here, and this episode in no way can be considered as anything but an isolated event," added Dr. Hochstettler.

The incident is under ongoing police investigation and therefore we are unable to comment further at this point.