Hooded youths launch fireworks at London synagogue prompting police to increase patrols

Police have increased patrols in a London neighbourhood after a group of youths reportedly launched fireworks at a synagogue.

A gang of hooded youths launched two fireworks towards the Lauderdale Road Synagogue in Maida Vale on Sunday, the second day of Rosh Hashanah, according to The Telegraph.

The synagogue is run by the Spanish and Portuguese Sephardi Community, which informed members of the incident. The building was empty and there were no reported injuries or damage.

Rabbi Amir Ellituv, from the synagogue, said he would not allow the incident to “deter us from coming together as a community”.

“Jewish families should be able to come together to celebrate Rosh Hashanah safely, openly and without fear,” he said.

A CST spokesperson called it a "serious incident". They added: “CST attended the scene and is in contact with the synagogue, and is working closely with the police to establish the full circumstances.”

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: "At 15:56hrs on Sunday, 13 September, officers were called to reports of a group of suspects discharging fireworks at a synagogue in Ashworth Road, Westminster.

"Officers attended the scene but the suspects had left prior to police arrival. No injuries were reported.

"Additional patrols are in place to help ensure Jewish communities feel safe, protected and reassured during this important religious period.

"The Met remains committed to protecting Jewish communities and ensuring people can celebrate and worship without fear of hate crime or intimidation.

"Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 4572/13SEP."