Two arrested after Chigwell rabbi hospitalised in ‘brutal assault’
Antisemitic language was used during assault by two youths on Chigwell's community rabbi - but it is thought he wasn't targeted as a rabbi or Jew
Jack Mendel is the former Online Editor at the Jewish News.
Two men have been arrested over the religiously-aggravated assault of an Chigwell rabbi on Sunday.
Rabbi Rafi Goodwin was taken to King George’s Hospital with cuts to the top of his head and around one eye after being set upon by two individuals around the Limes Estate, on Sunday. It was reported he had been attacked with an unknown item following a verbal altercation,
According to Essex police, two men from Ilford, aged 18 and 25 were arrested on Monday on suspicion of Grievous Bodily Harm with intent, and are currently in custody.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Hooper said: “We know this is a very important time – a time for communities to come together, to be around each other and celebrate. We do not want anyone to feel that they cannot do that safely.
“Officers have spent the day speaking with the Jewish community to provide reassurance.
“At this time we do not believe this incident is related to events taking place overseas or incidents which have taken place elsewhere in the country.”
They said they are also continuing to appeal for anyone with any information about yesterday’s incident to contact us, with rime reference number 42/92174/21.
Jewish News understands the rabbi was not targeted as a Jew or a rabbi and that there was no indication of motivation linked to the Middle East – but that it was sparked by a road rage incident. Nevertheless, it’s also understood antisemitic language was used as he was attacked.
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