Undercover Mosque (2007)

Undercover Mosque is a documentary that stirred significant discussion and concern upon its release. Produced by Hardcash Productions for Channel 4’s Dispatches series, it first aired on January 15, 2007.

The film is the result of a year-long undercover investigation into mosques throughout Britain, revealing a hidden world of extremist teachings.

The documentary showcases various preachers expressing radical views on non-Muslim laws, women, and the British government. The content was so controversial that it prompted an investigation by West Midlands Police to determine if any criminal offenses had been committed by those featured in the film.

Directed by Andrew Smith, Undercover Mosque has a runtime of 48 minutes. It is recognized as a significant piece of investigative journalism, bringing to light the issue of religious extremism within the UK.

The film traces the links between the teachings at the mosques and the Saudi Arabian religious establishment. It examines the extent to which Saudi Arabia exports Wahhabi teachings around the world by investing billions of dollars into schools, mosques, and charities.

The documentary also reveals that Saudi-trained preachers are promoted in DVDs and books on sale at religious centers, and their sermons are broadcast on websites. These publications and webcasts disseminate beliefs that are at odds with the values of wider British society.

Undercover Mosque is a powerful documentary that challenges viewers to think critically about the influence of extremist ideologies and the importance of moderation and dialogue within religious communities. It remains a relevant and impactful work in the ongoing conversation about faith and integration in modern society.