Met Police step up protection for Jewish community ahead of High Holy Days
There will be an enhanced policing operation to support and protect London’s Jewish community.
The Metropolitan Police is increasing its protection for Jewish communities across London during the upcoming High Holy Days.
There will be an enhanced policing operation to support and protect London’s Jewish community, including increased patrols and security measures around synagogues and other key community locations throughout the period. Specialist resources such as plainclothes officers will also be deployed so communities are protected even when they can’t see a visible police presence.
Several targeted incidents
Antisemitism across London has increased by 23 per cent in the last 12 months and there have been several targeted antisemitic incidents affecting the Jewish community in London, including a number of arson or attempted arson attacks, as well as the appalling stabbing in Golders Green. Counter Terrorism Policing London are leading multiple investigations in relation to these attacks and have made more than 30 arrests.
The Met is already working hard to protect the Jewish community and positive outcomes for antisemitic hate crimes have increased by 100 per cent in the last 12 months.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in north west London, said:
"As we approach Rosh Hashanah, I want to wish everyone celebrating a happy and peaceful New Year.
"We recognise the impact recent antisemitic incidents have had on communities and the concern they can cause. We are committed to ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice and to providing a visible and effective policing presence throughout the High Holy Days.
"We have worked closely with our partners and community representatives to put in place a robust policing plan to help people celebrate and observe this important period safely and with confidence.
"If you see our officers while attending services or community events, please do speak to them about any concerns you may have. We are here to support you."
Working closely with communities
To prepare for the High Holy Days, the Metropolitan Police has worked closely with Jewish community leaders, and groups such as Shomrim and the Community Security Trust (CST) to develop a comprehensive policing plan. A key element of this year's operation will be the work of the recently established Community Protection Team, which is dedicated to tackling antisemitism across north west London. Officers from the team will be conducting high-visibility patrols, visiting synagogues and community venues and working alongside CST and Shomrim to provide an enhanced response to reports of antisemitic hate crime.
The operation will continue across all High Holy Days, starting with Rosh Hashanah, but also including Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Simchat Torah.