The Metropolitan Police today announced the formation of a new dedicated Community Protection Team, initially staffed by 100 officers, aimed at combating a recent surge in antisemitic hate crimes across London. This move follows multiple arrests over the weekend related to antisemitic offences, including suspected arson attacks on synagogues and assaults targeting the Jewish community.
The new team will provide a more visible, intelligence-led policing presence to safeguard Jewish residents in the capital.
Targeted Arrests Made
During the past weekend, the Metropolitan Police arrested several individuals in connection with racially and religiously aggravated crimes. Among those arrested was a 57-year-old man detained for making threats against a Jewish individual using offensive language. Additionally, a 35-year-old man was charged after rocks were thrown at a Jewish community ambulance in Edgware.
Further arrests related to harassment, criminal damage, and public order offences were recorded in Brent and Croydon. All suspects have been bailed pending further investigations.
Intensive Police Response
In the last four weeks, the Metropolitan Police have arrested approximately 50 people for antisemitic hate crimes, with eight charged so far. Alongside these, 28 arrests have been made in connection with arson and serious offences investigated jointly with Counter Terrorism Policing. The total of more than 80 arrests highlights the severity of threats facing London’s Jewish communities.
Community Protection Team Formation
The Community Protection Team combines neighbourhood policing with specialist protection and counter-terrorism efforts to deliver consistent and locally informed policing. The team focuses on building strong ties with Jewish residents, faith leaders, and community volunteers to provide effective and sustained protection rather than relying on short-term operational surges.
Funding And Future Plans
The Metropolitan Police welcomed the Government’s recent £25 million funding boost for protective policing, which includes an £18 million ring-fenced allocation for the Met. This funding supports additional officer shifts and underpins the establishment of the new team. However, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley emphasised the need for long-term investment to maintain and develop this response to a persistent threat.
Leadership Commitment
Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley stated, “This team is a crucial step in strengthening our fight against enduring threats to Jewish communities. It provides more visible, intelligence-led protection led by officers who deeply understand their communities.”
Meanwhile, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan called for a relentless approach to tackling all hate crimes, highlighting the role of the new team in reassuring Jewish Londoners amid rising antisemitic violence.
The Metropolitan Police continue to prioritise hate crime across all communities, ensuring sustained efforts to protect Londoners and disrupt threats in partnership with the Government and local organisations.
Originally published by UKNIP.
