Police Appeal for Information Following Attack on Journalist
An investigation has been initiated following a stabbing incident in south London, specifically in the Wimbledon area. The Metropolitan Police were alerted at 2.49pm on Friday, 29 March, to an address where a man in his 30s had been attacked, sustaining a leg injury.
Upon arrival at the scene, London Ambulance Service paramedics, accompanied by police officers, provided immediate medical assistance to the victim. Subsequently, the injured individual was transported to a hospital for further treatment. Fortunately, his condition is reported to be stable, and his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
While the motive behind the attack remains unclear at this stage, officers are keeping an open mind regarding any possible motivations. Notably, the victim is employed as a journalist at a Persian-language media organization based in the UK. Considering recent threats directed towards journalists associated with similar organizations, the incident is being investigated by specialist officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, emphasized the importance of the investigation, stating, “While we are keeping an open mind, given the occupation of the victim and our publicised concerns about the threat to employees of that organisation, the investigation is being led by the Counter Terrorism Command.
Murphy continued, “I appreciate the wider concern this incident may cause – particularly amongst others in similar lines of work, and those from Iranian communities.” As a precautionary measure, additional patrols will be deployed in the Wimbledon area and other locations in London to provide reassurance to affected individuals.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward by contacting police at 0800 789 321.
The incident occurs against a backdrop of wider threats projected from Iran into the UK. Counter Terrorism Policing has been dealing with such threats since 2022, including plots targeting British or UK-based individuals perceived as enemies of the Iranian regime. Special attention is given to providing safety and security advice to affected individuals and organizations, including Persian-language media outlets.
As investigations continue, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.
