Harrow police are on alert in response to potential unrest in the area this evening.
Superintendent Zubin Writer, Policing lead for Harrow, has addressed community concerns emphasising that the police are committed to maintaining peace and order.
Police vans have been spotted by members of Harrow Online in Harrow Town Centre and North Harrow this afternoon as they prepare for any potentials disruption.
Scroll to the bottom of this post to find the latest updates available.
In addition to the Harrow Council statement issued yesterday, the full statement from Superintendent Writer posted last night 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.
“Local people can expect to see more officers in the area tomorrow and throughout the evening. They will be responding to any concerns and available to speak to residents who may have questions or need help and advice.
“I’d like to thank officers and the Harrow community for standing together against hate and division.”
A number of North Harrow businesses have taken the reluctant decision to close early today due to potential far right-protestors and counter protesters targeting the area.
The North Harrow Traders Association has concerns that local businesses could be adversely affected in any potential fallout from protestors or counter-protesters who will be traveling to the area after a message circulating on Whatsapp appears to target a small company on the top floor of a local shared Business Centre.
The entire business centre has made the decision to close for the day, with a number of local shops and businesses to close early, in the fear that nefarious marauders could target their business, staff and customers.
Moses Kazibwe, Chairman of the recently formed North Harrow Traders Association (NHTA) said “Yesterday, I met with the local authorities and local Police, and they have assured us that they are taking steps to protect local business and residents. Officers will be promptly deployed, and we do not want our community to be operating in fear. However, everyone should be alert and cautious.
“A number of traders have taken the reluctant decision to close early today which will have a financial impact on the. A real problem considering the current financial climate.
We would like to encourage everyone to keep safe for the next couple of days.”
Counter-protesters from Lewisham were confronted whilst handing out leaflets outside the North Harrow Community Library yesterday.
Georgia Weston who helped form the NHTA said “The North Harrow Community library, run by volunteers, has no link to the company highlighted on the WhatsApp message going around, yet it is being used as a meet up place by counter protestors from the other side of London – we don’t want people coming here upsetting our homes and businesses.”
Update: 5:15pm
A Section 60 Order has been issued in Harrow, leading local police to ramp up their safety measures. They are focusing on neighbourhoods like Rayners Lane, Roxbourne, Roxeth, North Harrow and more.
With robust resources already in place, the police are enhancing their cooperation with residents to keep the community safe. This order allows officers to stop and search anyone they suspect of carrying weapons or engaging in illegal activities. This step is part of a proactive approach to prevent violence and maintain public order.
Update: 6:00pm
Harrow Council have issued a further statement to residents via their social media channels. They said, “We understand the unease and heightened anxiety residents may feel tonight and ask everyone to remain calm.
“We would encourage you not share unverified rumours on social media that will increase fear within our communities.
“We are working with the police to monitor the situation and will update with any significant information.”
Update: 6:45pm
At least 40 people have gathered outside Harrow Mosque in Wealdstone. A large police presence, press and anti-protestors have gathered on Station Road. Around 100 people have also gathered outside North Harrow Library.
Update: 7:25pm
Harrow Council have posted the following via their socials from their CCTV control room, “Following a visit from North Harrow, the Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Osborn and Managing Director Alex Dewsnap visited the CCTV control centre.
“Our officers with Harrow Police are monitoring the situation tonight to keep Harrow safe.
“Any criminal activity or disorder will not be tolerated, and those taking part will face the full force of the law. Please report any instances of criminal activity to the police.”
Update: 8:40pm
There have been no reported incidents and the crowds are starting to disperse.
A large police presence remains at the scene in North Harrow and Wealdstone.
Currently, there is no evidence of any protesters entering Harrow. Harrow Online will provide updates if anything changes later this afternoon or evening. If you have any images or footage, please send them to WhatsApp at 07999 293 922.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
