SEVENTH-linked antisemitic attack in Golders Green as synagogue and nursery daubed with faeces

A synagogue and adjoining Jewish children’s nursery in Golders Green were both daubed with excrement in the early hours of Thursday morning, in the latest in a spate of antisemitic incidents that have rocked the area.

Community security group Shomrim North West London said the desecration is believed to be the seventh linked attack, but the eighth antisemitic incident locally in just over a week, after a separate case involving a man shouting abuse at school children on Finchley Road.

A Shomrim spokesperson said: “The desecration of another local synagogue and a children’s nursery with excrement is a vile and deliberate and premeditated act of antisemitism. This marks the eighth antisemitic incident locally in just over a week, to directly target the local Jewish community. These repeated attacks have left our community anxious, hurt, and increasingly worried. Shomrim is working hand in hand with police to analyse CCTV and gather evidence so the suspect can be caught and brought to justice.”

The Metropolitan Police confirmed it is investigating the incidents as religiously motivated criminal damage and has now appealed for the public’s help to trace the suspect.

Detective Superintendent Katie Harber, from the North West Command, who is leading the investigation, said: “These are revolting and appalling acts and we are urging the public to help us identify the perpetrator. 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.

We are actively engaging with the local community and remain in discussion with community partners and key stakeholders to provide reassurance and support. Please speak to a local officer with any concerns you have.”

Police said seven Jewish premises have now been confirmed as targets in the linked investigation. Four synagogues and a private residence in Golders Green had a substance smeared on them. On two occasions, a liquid was thrown towards a school and over a car linked to a synagogue.

The first reported desecration took place on 3 September at a synagogue, followed by further reports on 4 and 7 September. On 8 September, a Jewish school was targeted when a liquid was thrown at the building. Police later confirmed a synagogue was attacked on 2 September, with a further desecration reported on 11 September. Officers have also linked an earlier incident on 15 August, when liquid was thrown over a car connected to a synagogue.

No arrests have yet been made.

Officers have released an image and CCTV footage of a man they wish to trace in connection with the investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101 quoting reference 1071/03SEP, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.