Met Special Constable Under Investigation for Alleged Intimidation of Al Jazeera Journalists
The Metropolitan Police has launched an investigation into a volunteer officer after claims emerged that he sought to intimidate Al Jazeera journalists covering a suspected antisemitic hate crime in north-west London. The incident occurred in Golders Green, a suburb with a significant Jewish population, where tensions were already heightened following an arson attack on four ambulances belonging to the Hatzola community ambulance service.
Altercation Amid Heightened Tensions
On Monday, journalists from Al Jazeera were covering the aftermath of the ambulance fire when they became involved in a verbal altercation with local residents. Footage circulating on social media shows a group of approximately 50 people surrounding the film crew, shouting phrases such as "go home" and accusing them of "terrorist propaganda." One resident was heard saying, "No one needs Al Jazeera here."
The Met police acknowledged the incident, stating, "We're aware of the footage showing the verbal altercation between local residents and journalists. Freedom of the press is important and journalists must be able to do their job without being subject to intimidation or harassment."
Off-Duty Officer's Involvement
David Soffer, a special constable who was off-duty at the time, has been identified as a participant in the altercation. According to reports from Declassified UK, Soffer approached one of the Al Jazeera journalists, who is Palestinian, and called him a "dog" and a "donkey" in Arabic. He was also heard saying, "Go back to Qatar. Get out of here, you donkey."
The Met has referred Soffer to the Directorate of Professional Standards for assessment. In a statement, the force said, "We are aware that an off-duty serving Met special constable was involved in the altercation. The matter has been referred to the Directorate of Professional Standards for assessment."
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Officers on duty intervened during the altercation, but the Met acknowledged that journalists were put in a difficult situation for an extended period, leading them to leave the area. The force has instructed officers in Golders Green to be alert to similar incidents in the coming days and is reviewing footage to determine if any offences were committed.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the arson attack continues. Two men, aged 47 and 45 and both UK nationals, were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. They have been released on bail until April while inquiries proceed. Searches have been conducted at addresses in Kilburn, King's Cross, and other locations in north-west London.
Background on the Arson Attack
The incident that sparked the tensions occurred on Monday when four ambulances operated by Hatzola, a community ambulance service funded by Jewish donations, were set on fire in what is being treated as a suspected antisemitic hate crime. The attack prompted gatherings at the site, with community members expressing outrage and concern.
Al Jazeera, an independent news organisation based in Doha and partially funded by the Qatari government, was covering the story when the altercation with residents and the off-duty officer unfolded. The situation calmed later in the day, but the fallout continues as investigations into both the arson and the intimidation allegations proceed.
