Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has warned that the United Kingdom is confronting a 'pandemic of antisemitism' and has called for 300 additional officers to protect Jewish communities. The request comes after a double stabbing in Golders Green, where two Jewish men were attacked.
Request for Additional Resources
Sir Mark has submitted a proposal to the government seeking funding for a dedicated, enhanced neighbourhood policing presence focused on Jewish communities. The proposal also includes additional specialist resources, such as more firearms officers. The Commissioner emphasised that current protection levels for Jewish communities are unsustainable given the rising threat.
Golders Green Attack
The appeal follows an incident in which Shloime Rand and Moshe Ben Baila were stabbed in Golders Green. Essa Suleiman, 45, has been charged with two counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article. Sir Mark defended the officers' use of force during the arrest, stating they were confronting a dangerous individual.
Terrorism Threat Level Raised
Sir Mark also noted that the UK's terrorism threat level has been increased to 'severe', meaning an attack is 'highly likely'. He urged everyone to reflect on and challenge the levels of antisemitic attitudes prevalent in society.
Upcoming Protests
The Commissioner expressed concern about the scale of upcoming protests in the capital and indicated that potential restrictions are being considered. He stressed the need for a societal response to combat the growing antisemitism.
