Four synagogues and a private residence in Golders Green had a substance smeared on them
A 37-year-old man has been arrested after seven Jewish premises were targeted in an “anti-Semitic” attack. Four synagogues and a private residence in Golders Green had a substance smeared on them in what have been dubbed “revolting and appalling acts.” Two of the incidents saw a liquid thrown towards a school and over a car, while a substance was also smeared on the doors of two synagogues in the attacks.
The man was arrested this afternoon on suspicion of religiously motivated criminal damage in connection with the seven offences and he remains in custody. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, responsible for policing the North West Command, said: “This is a significant development in our investigation following substantial CCTV enquiries by officers. We remain in close contact with the local Jewish community as we continue to provide our support and reassurance.”
Police were first called with a report of religiously-motivated criminal damage relating to a synagogue on the morning of Wednesday, September 3. There were further reports that similar offences had taken place in the early hours of Thursday, September 4 at a private residence and Sunday, September 7 at another synagogue.
Police received further reports about an incident where a liquid was thrown at a school – which is believed to have taken place at around 2am that day on Monday, September 8. On Tuesday, September 9 police received a report about a substance being smeared on another synagogue on Tuesday, September 2.
On Thursday, September 11, police received reports of a substance smeared on the doors of another synagogue, believed to have taken place overnight. As a result of their enquiries, officers were able to link a seventh incident – involving liquid being thrown over a car linked to a fifth synagogue – which took place on Friday, August 15.
Anyone with information which can assist the investigation is asked to contact the Met via101 quoting 1071/03SEP. If you wish to remain anonymous do speak to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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