A message from the Met Police Commissioner…
“I am deeply saddened and angered that London has been tested again. In the face of another appalling, cowardly and criminal act, the real soul of this great city has shone through, demonstrating courage and resilience.
My heart goes out to the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this mindless way, and to those who were injured.
From the heartfelt tributes and the loving words of those who knew Jack Merritt and Saskia Jones, it is clear that they were wonderful, thoughtful and gifted young people who had much to give and who wanted to improve society.
What the few who seek to spread fear do not realise is that it only makes the rest of us more steadfast. We must continue to stand together and celebrate Jack and Saskia and the brave people who stood in the path of hate, protecting others.
Those heroes showed profound courage as – without thought for their own personal safety – they stepped forward to challenge a coward armed with weapons and what looked like an explosive device.
On Saturday I visited the scene with the Prime Minister and the Home Secretary, and later walked the area with the Mayor.
It was poignant this horror unfolded in the beautiful, historic Fishmongers Hall, a place focussed on helping others. The Hall is in the middle of a community who once more had to evacuate, many terrified again after their experiences in June 2017.
Yet what was uplifting was to see people going about their business, huge crowds in Borough Market, and across London, getting on with life.
I also want to thank all of the emergency service personnel who worked so tirelessly – and continue to do so. I am extremely proud of the armed City of London and Met officers and their colleagues who – as ever – ran towards that danger. Their response was swift, impressive and highly professional.
When you become a police officer you know confronting danger will be part of your role. You are the thin blue line between those who seek to cause harm and the public who must be protected.
The arrival of world leaders for the NATO summit today demonstrates that we will not be intimidated. You will see a more visible police presence, providing security and reassurance.
You also have a crucial role in helping us keep this great city safe. So what help would we like?
First, your vigilance. Millions of pairs of eyes and ears on every street, bus, inside every building.
Second, please report anything suspicious. We would far rather hear from you and it turn out to be nothing than you worry about bothering us when you may have a crucial piece of the jigsaw that could help.
Finally, let’s celebrate and champion our British values of tolerance and compassion, providing comfort and reassurance, and coming closer together, whatever our differences. Wherever possible, carry on with your normal lives. Those who seek to spread hate should know they will not succeed.
“n fighting back, we must take on those who seek to divide us and the ideologies behind them. All Londoners have a part to play. Ours is a great city and we must emerge stronger still from this tragedy.”
Craig Knight
Chief Inspector 240237
Neighbourhoods and Partnership
South Area Basic Command Unit
