Golders Green Stabbing: Somali-Born British Man, 45, Arrested in Terror Incident

UK Counter Terrorism police are investigating a stabbing in Golders Green, north London, declared a terrorist incident. Two Jewish men, Shilome Rand, 34, and Mosche Ben Baila (locally known as Moshe Shine), 76, were hospitalized after being stabbed yesterday. The 45-year-old suspect, a British national born in Somalia, was arrested and remains in custody.

Officers are searching an address in south-east London and investigating a prior altercation reported yesterday morning in Great Dover Street, Southwark. In that incident, a suspect with a knife reportedly had an altercation with an occupant, causing minor injuries, before leaving. Police believe this is the same man arrested in Golders Green.

Shilome Rand told ITV News he was stabbed in the chest after leaving his synagogue, expressing community fear and criticizing the government's response to antisemitism. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis stated, «words of condemnation are no longer sufficient.»

Footage shows the Golders Green attack and police confronting the suspect, using a Taser, and arresting him. Metropolitan Police body-worn camera footage shows officers shouting «get down on the ground» and «drop the knife» before subduing him. Mark Rowley, Britain’s most senior police officer, confirmed the suspect has a history of serious violence and mental health issues, and officers believed he had a bomb during the arrest.

The attack follows a series of antisemitic incidents in London, including attempted arson at a memorial wall and destruction of ambulances. A group called Hayi claimed responsibility for the stabbing, though this is met with skepticism due to differing attack methods. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Keir Starmer, and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood have all condemned the rise in antisemitism and pledged action. King Charles is also being kept informed.