A North London council leader has sought to reassure residents over the ‘fear and unease’ felt amongst the local community following a week of rioting across the country carried out by ‘far right thugs’.
Mosques, hotels housing asylum seekers, and businesses were targeted in organised attacks carried out under the pretence of ‘anti-immigration protests’.
Public disorder broke out over the past week after three children were killed, and more injured, following a stabbing attack in Southport (July 29). Incorrect rumours were pushed online that the alleged perpetrator was a Muslim asylum seeker who came to the country on a small boat.
Confirmation from Merseyside Police that the alleged Southport attacker was a British national from Wales appeared to be ignored, with planned protests evolving into rioting
Whilst Brent wasn’t specifically targeted, council leader, Cllr Muhammed Butt, has denounced the violence and acknowledged the ‘fear and unease’ many are likely feeling following the weeks events. He called the borough’s rich heritage and culture ‘the bedrock of our community’ and gave assurances that the council is working with the police to ‘safeguard residents’.
In a public statement, Cllr Butt said: “We stand united with the countless law-abiding people nationwide who are appalled by the recent violent incidents. We unequivocally condemn the actions of those who seek to disrupt the harmony of our communities. While Brent has been spared specific protests, we understand the unease and fear some residents may feel. Rest assured; we are pro-actively collaborating with the Metropolitan Police to safeguard our residents.”
He added: “Our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of every Brent resident is paramount. We denounce violence in all its forms; it has no place in our society. Now, more than ever, it’s vital that we come together to celebrate our diversity, foster understanding, and respect, and reject fear and hatred.”
Although protests or rioting did not take place in Brent, warnings have been issued that the neighbouring borough of Harrow could be targeted later this week. On social media site X, Harrow Labour Party said the borough ‘has been identified as a target’ for a demonstration on Wednesday (August 7) at 8pm by the far-right, Islamophobic organisation the English Defence League (EDL).
Harrow West MP, Gareth Thomas, said: “For many, the shocking and saddening scenes of the riots over the weekend will continue to be on people’s minds. I remain in talks with community groups locally and I have raised the [Tweet by Harrow Labour] with the police, Mayor, Home Office, and Harrow Council and I will continue to do so.”
Grant Williams is a journalist and Local Democracy Reporter (LDR) for Reach PLC, reporting on local government, politics and community issues across London. As part of the Local Democracy Reporting Service, he has contributed to Harrow Online, covering council decisions, housing developments, transport, planning matters and stories affecting local communities across Harrow and Brent.
