Our news team visited Madina two days ago to report on a violent attack that targeted Emilia Assan, a 37-year-old woman whose life was turned upside down after her house was set on fire by an anti-LGBTQ+ mob. The attack, which occurred on September 17, 2022, has left Emilia severely injured and in hiding as threats against her continue to escalate.
Upon arrival at Madina-UN, B3 Chimpanzee Street, GM-058-8375, where the charred remains of Emilia’s home still stand as a grim reminder of the violence, we spoke with local residents to piece together the events leading to this horrific act. According to a resident, Emilia and her lesbian partner, Karina, were specifically targeted by the mob. “The mob came specifically for them,” the source explained, confirming that the anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment against the couple had been building for some time. The source noted that one of the attackers said, “This is what happens when people like them live among us,” highlighting the intensity of the group’s determination to drive them out. “They didn’t hide the fact that they wanted them out of the community. The threats were constant, and everyone knew it was just a matter of time.”
Emilia and Karina had moved to Madina after fleeing violence from anti-gay campaigners, according to the anti-LGBTQ+ group that attacked them, as recalled by one source. Despite their efforts to live quietly, their relationship became known, leading to increased hostility from the community. “The community became increasingly hostile towards them once people learned about their relationship,” the source said. “Whispers turned into threats, and it became clear that they were not safe here.” An anti-LGBTQ+ group began harassing the couple, warning them to leave the area.
The harassment escalated, culminating in the terrifying event that fateful day on September 17, 2022, when a mob gathered outside Emilia’s house. “We could see the fire from our windows,” one neighbor recounted. “It was clear they intended to kill them. The flames were huge, and by the time we realized what was happening, it was too late.” The mob set fire to the house while Emilia and Karina were away, causing severe damage and destroying their home.
Upon returning home that evening, Emilia was identified by some individuals, who inflicted a series of injuries on her. Although Emilia survived the attack, she was left homeless, traumatized, and physically scarred. Our team found the remnants of her home still in ruins, a stark contrast to the vibrant neighborhood around it. Residents told us that while Emilia initially received assistance from Mr. Bashiru Arahman, the constant danger left her with no choice but to flee.
Despite extensive efforts to locate them, no one knows the current whereabouts of Emilia and Karina, who have not been seen for several months, both during and after the incident. The escalating threats and the mob’s continued pursuit forced them to disappear, leaving their future uncertain. “Everyone in the area knew that if Emilia stayed, they would come for her again,” the source said, adding that the mob had promised to find her during the intervention of Mr. Bashiru Arahman. “She had no option but to run for her life.”
As our team walked through the quiet streets of Madina, it became evident that Emilia and Karina’s ordeal had left a lasting mark on the community. Many residents expressed fear that such violence could happen again. “This attack has shaken us all,” one local man said. “We never thought something like this could happen right here in our own neighborhood.”
Emilia Assan’s story highlights the devastating impact of unchecked hatred and intolerance. Her fight for survival, while hidden from public view, continues as she seeks peace and safety far from the home that once offered her hope.
