Newham Neighbourhood Policing Team: Community Reassurance Message

On behalf of A/Superintendent Claire Gentles 

Dear all, 

We are aware of reports of a tragic incident involving a vehicle and a crowd near a Pride event in Berlin, in which one person has sadly died, and several others have been injured. Our thoughts are with the victim, those injured, their loved ones, and all those affected by this incident.

This remains a live investigation and the circumstances surrounding the incident, including any motivation, have yet to be established. It would therefore be inappropriate to speculate while enquiries are ongoing.

We do, however, recognise that incidents occurring at or near LGBTQ+ events can understandably cause concern and anxiety within LGBTQ+ communities. News of this nature may leave people feeling fearful, vulnerable, or concerned for their own safety, regardless of the motive ultimately identified by investigators.

The Metropolitan Police Service remains steadfast in its support of LGBTQ+ communities across London. We want to reassure our residents, visitors and partners that we stand with our LGBTQ+ communities and remain committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe, supported and able to live openly and authentically.

There is no place in Newham, or anywhere in London, for hatred, prejudice or discrimination directed towards anyone because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We take reports of anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime seriously and will continue to work with communities and partners to tackle hate crime in all its forms.

We will continue to engage with our communities, listen to concerns, and work together to ensure that London remains a city where everyone feels safe, valued and respected.

Claire Gentles

A/Superintendent Newham 

Neighbourhood Policing Teams