A PROLIFIC burglar who has previously been convicted for targeting churches is being hunted after a mosque was broken into three times.

Carl Weighman, 32, of no fixed abode, is believed to be behind the burglaries at the Essex Jamme Masjid Mosque, in Chelmsford Avenue, Southend.

He has more than 20 convictions for burglaries and most recently was jailed in 2013 for stealing a car from St Margaret’s Church, in Lime Avenue, Leigh, and a 42ins flat screen television from St Michael’s and All Angels Church, in Mount Avenue, Westcliff.

Police now want the public’s help in finding Weighman to bring his offending to an end.

Mohammed Hussain, vice chairman of the mosque’s committee, said: “It’s ridiculous how he has come in time and again. We are scared and try to secure everything.

“Our Imam lives in the flat next to the mosque and his children are scared about what’s going on.

“We are fed up. Our belief is peace and this is a special place which we believe no one will harm as it is a mosque.”

Weighman is suspected of stealing £300 cash from the mosque on January 13 after smashing through the doors to gain entry.

He also is alleged to have entered the mosque on January 30, but said he was looking for someone when questioned by worshippers.

He faces another accusation of attempting to raid the mosque on February 13, but was challenged and fled.

On Saturday, it is believed he may have tried to open the locked doors, but was disturbed by assistant Imam Ashraful Mowla.

Mr Mowla said: “I came face to face with a man. We had already seen him on CCTV. I tried to say something to him but he didn’t listen and quickly walked out around the back. It all happened in half a minute.”

Chief Insp Simon Anslow, district commander for Southend, said: “Police are treating the offences extremely seriously.

He said: “No matter what faith or denomination, someone committing offences in a place of worship impacts significantly on those communities who hold that place as sacred.

“We recognise that significance and are doing everything we can to try to locate whoever is responsible.”

Weighman is also wanted for the theft of a security lock from John Parker Motorcycles in North Avenue, Southend, worth £63.50, on January 28, at 11.10am.

Anyone with information can call Southend police station on 101.