Emergency services simulate antisemitic terrorist attack in the heart of Jewish London
Such is the threat of antisemitism that authorities are taking extraordinary precautions. To prepare for the worst, the Metropolitan Police Service training campus in Aerodrome Road, Hendon, hosted a training exercise on 27th February to simulate an antisemitic terrorist attack. North West London Shomrim, a Jewish volunteer neighbourhood watch patrol, were actively involved in the exercise along with Hatzola, CST, the police, fire brigade and ambulance service.
“If there were ever to be an antisemitic terrorist attack in the UK, chances are incredibly high it would happen in Barnet,” Borough Commander Detective Chief Superintendent Simon Rose told the Hendon Times. He added: “Hopefully this would never happen — but we need to make sure we are ready in case it does.”
To simulate a terrorist incident in the heart of London’s Jewish community, a large lorry was driven at speed down a mock street, smashing into cars and pedestrians. Emergency services were left to deal with actors with life-threatening injuries and were told that due to leaking petrol they should follow procedures for an incident with a risk of an explosion. The mock terrorist, was still behind the wheel of the lorry, and had to be contained but also treated for his injuries. Assisted by Shomrim and CST, the police took control of the scene whilst London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade treated victoms, assisted by Hatzola.
DCSI Rose concluded: “We need to be ready for this so we aren’t caught short if it ever happens. While I can’t say our performance was perfect today, there will be an extensive debrief to work through what can be improved. This has been a valuable day for everyone and I’m proud of all those involved for their contribution to making our community safer.”
We attended an excellent #terrorism training exercise today hosted by @mpsbarnet with @londonfire @Ldn_Ambulance @metpoliceuk & @Hatzola pic.twitter.com/2Ri36eypse
— Shomrim (North West London) (@shomrimlondon) February 27, 2017
Borough Commander for @MPSBarnet Ch Supt Simon Rose with volunteers from #Shomrim and #Hatzola after the training exercise. pic.twitter.com/jdWAXwy1sd
— Shomrim (North West London) (@shomrimlondon) February 27, 2017