This page will be updated as and when we receive new information or sharing news related to this claim
Updated, Thursday 8 August 8am
Last night, a peaceful counter protest was held in Harrow.
We'd like to thank everyone including the police, partners and our council staff who kept Harrow safe last night.
Updated, Wednesday 7 August 5pm
Superintendent Zubin Writer, the Local Policing Lead for the London Borough of Harrow, would like to advise that a Section 60 Order has been authorised by DAC Valentine between the hours of 14.00hrs on 07/08/24 and 02.00hrs on 08/08/24 for the following wards in Harrow:
Pinner, Pinner South, Rayners Lane, Roxbourne, Roxeth, Hatch End, Headstone, North Harrow, West Harrow, Harrow-on-the-Hill, North Wealdstone, South Wealdstone, and Harrow Weald.
There are significant policing resources already in place across the borough liaising with and reassuring members of the community and the Sec 60 Order compliments the robust policing plan in place, these additional powers will provide officers on the ground with the ability to stop and search any persons suspected of carrying weapons or planning any criminality. This is to help prevent violence and disorder and to keep the public safe.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Osborn:
Following my previous statement, there have also been calls for a counter protest in the same area in order to show that Harrow stands up against racism. The original source of the far-right protest is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police. I understand the unease and heightened anxiety residents may feel and ask everyone to remain calm and not share unverified rumours on social media that will increase fear within our communities.
Last night, Superintendent Zubin Writer, the Policing Lead for Harrow organised a meeting with community groups and traders’ association leaders who are most affected, particularly in terms of their proximity to North Harrow. The Police have sought to reassure all Harrow residents that they are well prepared to take the strongest actions against all criminal activity and hate crime this evening, and against anyone coming into the borough to cause trouble, as well as to support our residents to continue to go about their daily lives.
We understand that there have been calls for residents to attend the ‘counter-protests’. We would ask people not to attend as this will make the job of the Police to keep everyone safe harder.
Updated, Wednesday 7 August 12pm
Residents in Harrow can expect to see more officers in the area today and throughout the evening, responding to any concerns and available to speak to residents who may have questions or need help and advice.
Newly Appointed Policing Lead for Harrow, Superintendent Zubin Writer said:
“We are aware of plans for disorder tomorrow evening in Harrow.
“Our communities will undoubtedly be concerned having seen the horrendous images from across the country where innocent members of the public and officers have been attacked.
“We want to reassure the residents of Harrow that the police will not tolerate racism or acts of thuggery on our streets.
“Our message to all of those seeking to cause violence and divide our communities is clear – your actions are completely unacceptable and anyone taking part will face the full force of the law.
“I’d like to thank officers and the Harrow community for standing together in the face of hate and division.”
Updated, Tuesday 6 August
Cllr Paul Osborn, Leader of the Council and Newly Appointed Policing Lead for the London Borough of Harrow, Superintendent Zubin Writer said:
“Like most people across the nation, we are appalled by the violent incidents seen in the news. We understand the unease residents may feel and are working together to ensure the safety of our residents and businesses.
“We condemn violence and hatred in all its forms – it has no place in our society. Keeping Harrow and our residents safe will always be our top priority.
“We are aware of social media posts and WhatsApp messages which identify a location in Harrow as one of 30 areas across the Country for a protest to take place on Wednesday 7 August. These claims are being investigated to verify whether a protest is taking place and if there is we will prioritise the safety of Harrow’s communities in our response. We ask everyone to remain calm whilst we work to monitor the situation.
“Any instances of criminal activity and hate crime should be reported to the police. They will take the strongest action against anyone coming into the area to cause trouble. In the event of any protest, please avoid those areas.
“There will be a large police presence in Harrow as additional resources have been drafted. Please do not be alarmed, this is to ensure the safety of our residents. Together we will continue to engage with the wider community.
“Harrow is home to many faiths, races, and backgrounds - our diversity is our strength. It’s something we pride ourselves in. We are and always will work with our faith leaders and community groups to maintain our excellent community relations. This strong bond has got us through difficult times in the past and this will continue to stop hatred from disrupting our communities.”
Update published Monday 5 August
You will have seen distressing scenes in some UK cities over the weekend which have dominated the news. We understand you may feel worried about this.
You may see a lot commentary and posts on social media. There is a lot of misinformation being shared. Like anything, it is important to check the source and avoid causing unnecessary alarm to our communities. Please be responsible.
If you experience, or witness incidents of threatening behaviour or hate crime, please report it to the Police by calling 101 or via www.report-it.org.uk. If you are worried for your safety, or someone else's, please call 999.
Hate Crime can also be reported via Stop Hate Crime