British police arrested a 37-year-old man in north London on suspicion of "religiously-motivated criminal damage" following a string of desecrations at synagogues in the city, authorities said Friday.
The suspect allegedly smeared human waste on several synagogues, according to Shomrim, a Jewish volunteer community security group that first exposed the incidents. The Jewish News published photos showing synagogue doors defaced with excrement.
Suspect smears human waste on London synagogue
(Video: Shomrim London )
London’s Metropolitan Police said four synagogues and private residences were vandalized with an unidentified substance. In other cases, described by police as “revolting and appalling,” bodily fluids were thrown at a school and a vehicle, the BBC reported.
Speaking exclusively to Jewish News, Barnet’s policing commander, Det Chief Supt Luke Williams, called the arrest a significant development in the investigation. He added that officers remain in close contact with the local Jewish community, providing reassurance and support.
Shomrim volunteers had met earlier this week with senior police investigators to press for urgent action. “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," a Shomrim spokesperson said Tuesday.
"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."
In a statement following the arrest, Shomrim thanked police for responding to community concerns, increasing patrols and acting “decisively” to apprehend the suspect. “Our volunteers have been working tirelessly around the clock, analysing CCTV and carrying out covert operations to assist this investigation,” the group said in The Jewish News. “This arrest is a testament to the strength of partnership between the community, Shomrim, and the police. We will continue to support those affected and ensure our community feels safe and reassured.”