E-MAIL THIS LINK
To: 

Gang on rampage in Golders Green
A gang of pro-Palestinian demonstrators rampaged through the heart of the Jewish community on Wednesday evening, attacking businesses and assaulting a motorist.

Police and the CST have increased patrols and security following the incidents in Golders Green, North-West London, amid concerns of further trouble during Shabbat.

The group of around 15 men had been demonstrating in support of Palestinians in Gaza but then made their way along Golders Green Road, attacking the man as he got into his car. They attempted to gain access to a number of kosher restaurants and Jewish businesses, and
At one point entered Solly's restaurant, but were thrown out by staff and diners. Despite officers arriving in the area quickly, the gang was able to escape on the Tube.
at one point entered Solly's restaurant, but were thrown out by staff and diners. Despite officers arriving in the area quickly, the gang was able to escape on the Tube.

Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Tucker, acting borough commander of Barnet police, said: "We were aware that the activity in Gaza was going to have an impact on antisemitism because of our very large Jewish population in Barnet. We have liaised with the CST in advance to make sure our response is joined up.

"We will not tolerate any incidents of antisemitism and will investigate any allegations robustly. People have a legitimate right to demonstrate but that cannot be a front for antisemitism or any other type of crime."

A CST spokesman said: "The gang-related incident in Golders Green is extremely troubling."
A CST spokesman said: "The gang-related incident in Golders Green is extremely troubling. The idea that events in the Middle East can trigger this kind of rampage is something that the community, police and politicians need to now consider with the utmost urgency. The incidents that have occurred this week are very serious and reflect exactly why we have such a large scale security operation already in place."

He said urgent talks were taking place with police to ensure a visible police presence around synagogues and other Jewish community sites.

Earlier this week, the slogans "Jihad for Israel" and "Jihad the only solution for Palestine" were daubed on buildings.
Earlier this week, the slogans "Jihad for Israel" and "Jihad the only solution for Palestine" were daubed on buildings in Stamford Hill, Golders Green and Manchester, and outside the main entrance of Finchley Synagogue. Abusive messages were also left on the switchboard of the Board of Deputies.
Posted by: Fred 2009-01-03
http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=258912