Police Investigating Religiously Aggravated Assault in North London
Metropolitan Police are investigating a disturbing incident where a car reportedly drove towards three 14-year-old Jewish boys in north-west London on Monday, April 20th, 2026. The vehicle, described as a black saloon-type car, allegedly mounted the pavement on Holders Hill Road, Finchley, around 15:40 BST, forcing the boys to jump out of the way before speeding off.
The incident is currently being treated as a religiously aggravated assault, and while no arrests have been made, enquiries are ongoing.
The Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed the investigation, stating: "We are investigating reports a car drove towards three 14-year-old boys on Holders Hill Road, Barnet on Monday, 20 April."
Heightened Alert and Community Concerns
The event has amplified anxieties within the Jewish community, with reports suggesting security staff at Hasmonean High School for Boys had been on high alert due to a series of alleged attacks. A parent living near the school expressed dismay, calling the alleged targeting of individuals for their Jewish identity "despicable" and "so low."
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The Community Security Trust (CST), an organization that monitors antisemitism and provides security for the Jewish community, confirmed the incident was reported to them. This event follows a series of reported antisemitic incidents in London, including suspected arson attacks on synagogues and assaults on Jewish men.
New Police Unit Launched Amid Rising Hate Crime
In response to escalating antisemitic incidents, the Met Police recently announced the creation of a dedicated Community Protection Team. This new unit, comprising 100 extra officers, aims to provide a "more visible, intelligence-led and co-ordinated presence focused on protecting Jewish communities across London." News of this incident emerges as the Met Police revealed that antisemitic hate crimes in London have reached their highest point in two years.
"CST welcomes the Metropolitan Police's announcement of a new dedicated Community Protection Team to tackle antisemitic hate crimes and protect the Jewish community in London. It's unbelievable." - Spokesman for the Community Security Trust (CST)
Background and Related Incidents
While this specific incident is under investigation, similar events have occurred globally. In Melbourne, Australia, a 13-year-old girl has been charged with multiple offences, including allegedly shouting antisemitic remarks and swerving a stolen car towards members of the Jewish community. Another incident in Brooklyn, New York, in May 2024, saw a driver charged with attempted murder after allegedly jumping a curb and attempting to hit pedestrians near a yeshiva, with witnesses reporting antisemitic statements. In Indianapolis, USA, in November 2023, a woman drove her car into a building, reportedly targeting what she believed to be a Jewish school. In May 2021, four men were arrested in London in connection with a video showing antisemitic abuse being shouted from cars.
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