Finchley synagogue target of antisemitic arson attack

Finchley synagogue target of antisemitic arson attack

Authorities have launched a manhunt following an attempted arson at Finchley Reform Synagogue, located in north London. The incident involved two individuals, believed to have thrown a brick and two petrol-filled bottles at the synagogue. Fortunately, none of the objects ignited, resulting in no injuries or damage to the property.

The Metropolitan Police are treating this attack as an antisemitic hate crime. The suspects, who were wearing balaclavas, approached the building around 1:00 a.m. BST before carrying out the attack. Police have appealed to the public for any information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, that could assist in identifying the perpetrators.

Sarah Sackman, the Labour MP representing Finchley and Golders Green, condemned the attack and highlighted ongoing concerns within the local Jewish community. She stated, “This shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue follows a series of alarming attacks on the Jewish community in Finchley and Golders Green.” Sackman emphasized her determination to resist normalizing such threats, adding, “British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear – whether taking their children to nursery or attending synagogue. We do not want to live behind ever higher walls.”

The Community Security Trust, a UK charity focused on Jewish security and monitoring antisemitism, confirmed it is supporting the synagogue and working closely with police. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams acknowledged the distress caused by the event, especially following a similar arson incident in nearby Golders Green the previous month. Williams assured the community that the police are treating the case with utmost seriousness and maintain ongoing cooperation with community leaders as the investigation continues

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More