Teenager Arrested After Chaos at Gravesend Gurdwara
A 17-year-old boy has been charged following a disturbance at the Sri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend. Kent Police were called to the scene at 8.10pm on Thursday, 11 July 2024, after reports of trouble inside the place of worship.
Violence Erupts Outside Place of Worship
Two women suffered minor injuries outside the building following an assault linked to the disturbance. Police swooped on the scene and arrested a local teenage boy. Officers also recovered a bladed weapon from the area. Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt during the incident.
Serious Charges Laid, Court Appearance Scheduled
By Saturday 13 July, the teenager was charged by the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate with several offences including:
- Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
- Using or threatening unlawful violence
- Threats to kill
- Threatening a person with a bladed weapon
- Possession of a bladed article in public
Later that day, at Maidstone Crown Court, he faced an additional charge of attempted grievous bodily harm. He was bailed but immediately detained for a mental health assessment. His next court appearance is set for Medway Youth Court on Thursday, 18 July.
Police Assure Community After Religiously Aggravated Incident
North Kent Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Angie Chapman reassured the public, saying:
“This is an isolated incident and our initial enquiries suggest it is not terrorism-related. We are treating it as religiously aggravated. It was upsetting for local people and our officers will remain on patrol in the area for reassurance and engagement with the community. I would like to thank the local community for their ongoing support and assistance while this investigation continues.”
