The Met Police are investigating a linked series of antisemitic incidents in Barnet and have released CCTV images in an appeal to the public to help trace the suspect.
In recent weeks, seven Jewish premises have been targeted in separate incidents. Four synagogues and a private residence in Golders Green had a substance smeared on them. On two other occasions, a liquid was thrown towards a school and over a car.
The offences are being treated as religiously-motivated criminal damage.
Detective Superintendent Katie Harber from the North West Command, who is leading the investigation, said: “These are revolting and appalling acts and we are urging the public to help us identify the perpetrator. Police and local partners continue to carry out extensive CCTV enquiries which have established the same suspect is likely responsible for all seven offences. Detectives and neighbourhood officers are working at pace to identify them.
“We are very aware of how distressing these offences have been for those who have been targeted. We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour.
“We are actively engaging with the local community and remain in discussion with community partners and key stakeholders to provide reassurance and support. Please speak to a local officer with any concerns you have.”
Police were first called with a report of religiously-motivated criminal damage at a synagogue on the morning of Wednesday, 3 September.
There were further reports that similar offences had taken place in the early hours of Thursday, 4 September at a private residence, and Sunday, 7 September at another synagogue.
On Monday, 8 September, police received reports of an incident where liquid was thrown at a school – believed to have happened at around 02.00hrs that day.
On Tuesday, 9 September, another report was made about a substance smeared on a synagogue on Tuesday, 2 September.
On Thursday, 11 September, police received reports of a substance smeared on the doors of another synagogue, believed to have taken place overnight.
As part of their enquiries, officers also linked a seventh incident involving liquid being thrown over a car connected to a fifth synagogue on Friday, 15 August.
No arrests have been made at this stage.
Officers are releasing an image and CCTV footage of a man they want to speak to in connection with the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the Met on 101 quoting 1071/03SEP. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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