Police issue assurance amid concerns from Island's Jewish community

Constabulary 'mindful' of heightened fears following Australia terror attack  

Police say they recognise concerns amongst the Island's Jewish community following recent attacks overseas, saying it is taking steps to ensure their safety and security.

On Sunday (14 December) a terror attack in Sydney saw 15 people killed - including two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor and a 10-year-old girl. They were attending a Chanukah event on Bondi Beach.

In the hours that followed, British police forces announced they would be stepping up security in Jewish communities; the Metropolitan Police increasing officer presence around synagogues and other venues in London.

Following this step and reports of concerns from the Island's own Jewish community, Manx Radio approached the Isle of Man Constabulary for a statement.

In response, it says: "We appreciate that there may be concerns amongst members of the local Jewish community on the Isle of Man following recent attacks overseas, including the tragic events reported in Australia over the weekend.

"Whilst there is no increased known threat or risk on the Isle of Man, we are mindful of safety and security information provided by the Community Security Trust (CST), a dedicated organisation providing safety and security advice to members of the Jewish community worldwide, and have used this to inform proportionate assessments already in place - particularly during the holy festival of Chanukah. 

"Our approach remains intelligence‑led and community‑focused. If anyone has concerns, please report them to us in the usual way. In an emergency, always call 999."

As per the 2021 census, 0.2 percent of the Isle of Man population is Jewish.

Jewish Isle of Man resident Michael Josem says some Jews on the Isle of Man do not feel safe:

Yesterday (Monday, 15 December) Chief Minister Alfred Cannan - alongside the Lieutenant Governor and Lord Bishop - attended a candle-lighting ceremony recognising the Jewish festival of Chanukah.

Mr Cannan said the arrangements had been in place for some time, but take on extra significance following the weekend's tragic events in Sydney. 

He's sent the Isle of Man Government's deepest condolences to all those affected by the 'horrific' attack.

Read more here.