One of our members in Bow, Tim Doyle, has been liaising closely with the police over the last 24 hours, in response to violence that we have seen over the last few days. He has been happy to share his findings and thoughts, which we hope will build a picture of what has been happening in our Borough.
'The random and indiscriminate violence against businesses, households and the police witnessed across London last night is totally despicable and without excuse. It is pure criminality and an embarrassment for ordinary hardworking Londoners, and those responsible will feel the full force of the law in the coming days and weeks.
We want to thank and commend the police, fire brigade, local authorities and many local volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout the last 48 hours to restore order, save property and life, and repair damage to local communities.
In Bethnal Green and Bow, the violence was mercifully limited to a few small but significant outbursts. The Tesco's in Bethnal Green was targeted last night by around 100 youths, in which 2 police officers were injured. And a number of small businesses in the Roman Road were also hit, with windows smashed and property stolen. I have spoken to some of the businesses affected, who were full of praise for the police when they arrived. 2 arrests have this morning been made in connection with the looting on the Roman Road.
I spoke to Chief Inspector Helen Lewis, Head of Partnership for Tower Hamlets this morning. She said the main priority last night for local police was to provide riot trained officers for tasking in neighbouring Hackney and Newham. This left a relatively small number of officers available for assurance patrols in Bow and Bethnal Green. Tonight, every single available officer and special constable has been called in for duty. I spoke to an officer who had put on his uniform for the first time in nine years to support front line officers in the borough.
We want to encourage members of the local community who have information about individuals involved in rioting and looting to pass it on to the police directly- either online or via the new non-emergency number 101.'
Local members of Bethnal Green and Bow Conservatives Association have been speaking to local residents today to listen to their concerns, and will continue to do that tomorrow. If you have been affected and you would like one of our Councillors can help you, please do contact us at: [email protected]. If you would like to report a crime anonymously, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.