Hello Everyone,
On Sunday I issued a statement about the tragedy in Southport and far-right extremist violence that has broken out across the country which you can read here. I want to update you about the plans in place to safeguard our communities in Newham in light of the criminality and violent disturbances that have unfolded across the country.
These events of violent disorder are being driven by abhorrent anti-Muslim hate, racism and hostility towards minorities and refugees; cultivated by far-right extremists who peddle Islamophobic, racist tropes and anti-immigrant hostility.
Presently, there have been no specific incidents reported to the police, and there is no credible intelligence to indicate that Newham will be the target of far-right extremist activity at this time, although we are aware of much unsubstantiated rumour and speculation circulating on social media.
If you come across unverified reports on social media, including WhatsApp, please report them to the police via 999 if an emergency or 101, and please don’t re-share them.
We know that the impact of unverified reports about far-right activity being posted on social media and being shared via WhatsApp spreads very quickly; and we know that it is leading to our Muslim residents feeling particularly anxious and scared; as well causing great alarm to the wider community in Newham.
Remember, any information about any alleged incidents or assaults because of the current threat this country faces from far-right extremist networks should be immediately reported to the police on 999 if it’s an emergency, or 101.
We are aware of preparations being made by our colleagues at Waltham Forest Council and their police partners ahead of anticipated far-right activity taking place in their borough this evening. We will be monitoring the situation closely to mitigate any impact on Newham, and we are in touch with colleagues to provide support as needed.
Be assured that the Council remains absolutely diligent in monitoring the intelligence coming to us directly, which we are passing onto the police. Specific things we are doing also include:
- Continuing enhanced patrols in collaboration with the police and our community safety teams at the Council, alongside CCTV monitoring, across our mosques, places of worship, asylum hotels and other venues / locations where there may be concerns.
- Holding regular partnership meetings with the police and others to monitor the situation, continue our reassurance efforts and jointly review plans should there be any escalation of tension in the borough.
- Updating and meeting with local mosque and faith leaders, as well as representatives of other vulnerable groups to offer reassurance and remind them of the support we and other partners can offer.
Throughout this period, the Council will be pointing to helpful information and advice which may assist residents, and keeping you updated of the true picture of the current situation in our borough.
We are also coordinating with colleagues across London in collaboration with London Councils, the GLA and the Metropolitan Police. Earlier today, myself and Cllr Amar Virdee, the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime, joined a meeting convened by the Mayor of London and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner.
Along with other council leaders and MPs in London, we discussed the impact to our communities across the capital as well as any risks / threats in specific boroughs; and are working hard in coordinating our joint efforts to show that hate will never gain hold in London. All of us are standing together to send a clear message to anyone who breaks the law: you will be arrested and face the full force of the law.
I hope this provides some reassurance to you at this time. I will be sending further updates in the coming days.
In the meantime, please do offer support and comfort to your family members, friends, work colleagues and neighbours in your community, especially those who are from our Muslim communities. I am acutely aware that right now the events unfolding will be very triggering for so many across our borough. It will also be frightening to our young people trying to make sense of what is happening in our country right now, and to our older residents who will be wondering how can this still be happening at this time.
That’s why we must rightly remain vigilant and always call out hate crime; but it’s also important that we remain calm.
Often, here in Newham we celebrate how our diversity is our strength. I know it is true, even at this most perilous time. That’s why we will continue to stand together in solidarity and as one united community against hate because We Are Newham: resilient and strong always.
Best wishes,
Rokhsana Fiaz OBE
Mayor of Newham
London Borough of Newham
