A man has been caught on security camera allegedly removing a mezuzah from a Jewish home in Golders Green in what is being investigated as a possible antisemitic attack.
Footage released by Shomrim North West London shows a man walking up to the front door of a property on Sunday morning and appearing to use a knife to remove the religious scroll from the doorpost before walking away. The incident was one of several reported across the area in recent days.
A mezuzah, a small decorative case containing a handwritten Hebrew prayer, is traditionally affixed to the doorframe of Jewish homes. Its presence makes such homes highly identifiable.
In a statement, Shomrim confirmed it had received multiple reports of mezuzahs being deliberately removed from Jewish homes in the area. The group described the incidents as “targeted acts of vandalism and theft” that have caused “significant distress within the local Jewish community.”
Shomrim said it is actively working with the Metropolitan Police to identify and apprehend the suspect. CCTV from affected properties and surrounding areas is being reviewed as part of the investigation.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed an investigation is underway. A spokesperson told Jewish News: “Police are investigating after a man allegedly removed mezuzot from doors in the Golders Green area. Around 10.15hrs on Monday, 19 May, the man approached two addresses in Bridge Lane.
“Officers are working to identify the man and anyone with any information is asked to contact police. Officers will be carrying out patrols in the area following these concerning reports and members of the public are encouraged to report any issues to officers.”
Shomrim is also providing support to affected residents and conducting additional reassurance patrols in the neighbourhood. It urged anyone who has experienced or witnessed similar incidents to come forward.
Campaign Against Antisemitism condemned the incident as “cowardly and costly vandalism”. A spokesperson said: “This sort of targeting sends the message that British Jews aren’t safe, even in places where they think they are. We join Shomrim in calling for information so appropriate action can be taken. If this were your home, you’d want others to help you get justice too.”
The Community Security Trust (CST) confirmed it is supporting the victim and liaising with police. “We urge anyone who has experienced a similar incident to report it to the police and CST,” a spokesperson said.
