Britain's most senior police officer, Sir Mark Rowley, has confirmed that a 45-year-old suspected terrorist who stabbed two Jewish men in Golders Green has a history of serious violence and mental health problems. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has been formally declared a terrorist attack by Laurence Taylor, head of counter-terrorism policing. Investigations are exploring whether the Jewish community was deliberately targeted.
Sir Mark praised two unarmed police officers who confronted the suspect, Tasering and arresting him despite fearing he was carrying an explosive device. He credited their actions with preventing further injury and saving lives. The suspect remains in custody after a hospital check-up and was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the attack on two British Jews going about their daily lives.
The stabbing took place around 11.15am in Golders Green, a north London area with a large Jewish population. Jewish leaders have called for tougher action against antisemitic violence in the wake of the double stabbing. Sarah Sackman, Labour MP for Finchley and Golders Green and courts minister, spoke at the scene alongside Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley.
The attack has been described as 'appalling' by officials, and the community remains on edge as investigations continue. The Metropolitan Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents.
