A number of synagogues have been targeted in the “revolting and appalling” attacks
A number of synagogues and homes in Barnet have been vandalised in a series of anti-Semitic attacks, prompting a CCTV appeal from the Metropolitan Police. The perpetrator first smeared a ‘substance’, said to be faeces, on a temple in Golders Green on Tuesday, September 2, before striking four other premises between then and September 11.
Officers also received reports that a liquid was thrown at a Jewish school at around 2am on Monday, September 8. Further enquiries then found a link to a seventh incident, involving liquid being thrown over a car, that took place on Friday, August 15.
Described by investigators as “revolting and appalling acts”, each of the offences is now being treated as religiously-motivated criminal damage. No arrests have been made at this stage but detectives have identified a person of interest from video footage taken on Finchley Road.
The Met Police has now released screenshots in the hopes someone can put a name to the face pictured. The images show a tall white man of medium build, with stubble and a shaved head.
He looks to be in his late twenties or early thirties. He is wearing a black t-shirt, light-coloured shorts and black-and-white trainers, as well as a black cap and blue shoulder bag.
Detective Superintendent Katie Harber from the North West Command, who is leading the investigation, said: “Police and local partners continue to carry out extensive CCTV enquiries which have established the same suspect is likely responsible for all seven offences. Detectives and neighbourhood officers are working at pace to identify them.
“We are very aware of how distressing these offences have been for those who have been targeted. We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour.
She also confirmed the force is working with the local community to provide support, and urges concerned residents to get in touch with their local police team.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting 1071/03SEP. Anonymous reports can also be made to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111 or the charity’s website.
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