A menorah symbolising the Jewish faith was torn down in an act of "hatred and cowardice".
The Metropolitan Police is investigating damage to the menorah in Kingswood Avenue outside Queens Park recreational ground after it was reported on Thursday (December 14).
It is believed it was deliberately damaged, a Met spokesperson said.
"Officers are in touch with the victim, and we are making fast time enquiries to identify and locate a suspect," they added.
This is my local Hanukkiah this morning - only 4 days after the bulbs were stolen and a sticker about the war left in the middle. I don’t know how this needs saying but destroying Jewish symbols *isn’t* an act of resistance or solidarity. It’s an act of hatred and cowardice. pic.twitter.com/AXoWlj8VXv
— Sam Magnus-Stoll (@samanthadmagnus) December 14, 2023
Sam Magnus-Stoll posted the damage on her X thread, adding: "This is my local Hanukkiah this morning - only four days after the bulbs were stolen and a sticker about the war left in the middle. I don’t know how this needs saying but destroying Jewish symbols isn’t an act of resistance or solidarity. It’s an act of hatred and cowardice."
On Thursday evening the community gathered to light candles again in solidarity.
Westminster North MP Karen Buck said: "Here tonight in Queen’s Park as an act of solidarity as the menorah candles are lit once again. As @samanthadmagnus said, destroying Jewish symbols isn’t an act of resistance, it strikes at the heart of something very precious - our ability to live well together as neighbours."
A menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-day Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.
No arrests have been made.
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting CAD 2238/14DEC23.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here