Barnet Council's chief executive has condemned the stabbing of two people in Golders Green on Wednesday as a senseless antisemitic attack on the Jewish community.
The victims, Shilome Rand, 34, and Moshe Shine, 76, are both in a stable condition. A 45-year-old British national born in Somalia has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Counter Terrorism Policing has declared the incident a terrorist attack and is leading the investigation.
Chief Executive Cath Shaw described the attack as ‘shocking and deeply distressing’, adding that her thoughts are with the victims, their families and the wider Jewish community.
She praised the emergency services and Shomrim — the volunteer neighbourhood watch charity — for their swift response in apprehending the suspect.
In a joint statement, Shaw and BCU Commander Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams confirmed that a significant policing operation is underway, including additional stop and search powers, increased Armed Response Vehicles across Barnet, Brent and Harrow, and a heightened presence around schools, transport hubs and faith venues.
‘We stand firmly alongside the Jewish community. There is absolutely no place for antisemitism, hatred or violence in Barnet,’ Shaw added.
