Detectives investigating a linked series of Islamophobic incidents at the Palestinian Mission in Hammersmith, as well as mosques and businesses across west London, have made an arrest.
On Monday, 27 November, a 61-year-old man was arrested in Ealing on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage after red paint was thrown or sprayed at the locations.
The offences took place in the boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham, and Ealing on 12 separate occasions between Monday, 16 October and Saturday, 18 November.
The man was taken into custody where he remains.
Detective Superintendent Figo Forouzan, leading the investigation, said: “Hate crime has no place in London. Its effects run far deeper than property damage, and the impact on victims can linger beyond the removal of the paint. Officers have been working incredibly hard to identify the individual responsible for these offences and provide the relevant support and reassurance to those affected.
“The victims are being supported by dedicated faith officers, and neighbourhood teams have changed their patrol times and routes to provide additional reassurance.”
