Detectives from the North East Area’s Public Protection Unit are appealing for information after several Pride flags were vandalised in two homophobic attacks in Forest Gate, Newham. The incidents, which occurred near Forest Gate Railway Station, have raised considerable concern and upset within the local area and among the LGBTQ+ community.
Linked Hate Crimes
Officers are treating the two incidents as linked. The first attack took place in the early morning of Sunday, June 23. A large painted Pride flag on the pavement outside Forest Gate Railway Station, located on Woodgrange Road (E7), was defaced with red paint. A further report was made on Wednesday, June 26, regarding criminal damage to two other flags at the same location.
Community Concerns
Detective Inspector James Rush emphasized the impact of these offences: “We recognise that these incidents have caused considerable concern and upset in the local area and among the local LGBTQ+ community, especially as they occurred during Pride Month and just days before London Pride. This sort of offence can be extremely intimidating, which is why we remain committed to rooting out hate crime offenders and preventing further incidents.”
Thorough Investigation
DI Rush assured the community that the police are taking these offences very seriously. A thorough investigation is underway to identify and bring the perpetrator(s) to justice. Additionally, detectives are exploring whether this incident is linked to previous allegations of homophobic criminal damage at the same location, including an incident in early March.
Encouraging Witnesses
DI Rush encouraged anyone with information to come forward: “If you witnessed anyone acting suspiciously in the area on Saturday night into Sunday morning or Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, please get in touch. If you were driving in the vicinity at the time and have dash cam footage, we urge you to contact us.”
How to Report Information
No arrests have been made at this early stage of the investigation. Anyone with information can contact the police by calling 101 or visiting their local police station, quoting reference number 2433/23Jun. Alternatively, individuals can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
