A personal message from ACC Sean O'Callaghan

On behalf of British Transport Police, I want to extend my deepest condolences to all those affected by the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza. We understand the wide-reaching effect the conflict overseas has on our communities and extend our full unwavering support to all those impacted. We know there are many people who have real fears for their safety, and I want to take this opportunity to reassure our communities that your safety is our number one priority.

Abuse, intimidation or violence – especially that which is religiously motivated, will never be tolerated and our officers will take robust action against those who seek to cause harm or spread hate. 

We stand strong in our fight against hate crime and we will listen to, and act swiftly in response to, concerns raised by those travelling on the rail network. 

We have enhanced our patrols across the network and are calling for anybody who witnesses, or experiences hate crime or any other threatening or concerning behaviour to report it to us so we can take immediate action.    

There will be further protests over the coming days, and we have a solid policing plan in place which balances the right to lawfully protest against any disruption. Where there is abuse, intimidation or violence that is religiously motivated our officers will take robust action. 

We continue to work with our policing, rail partners and religious groups to ensure we are doing everything in our power to protect you and make you feel safe.