Police are investigating a series of incidents in which homes across northeast London have been vandalized with red paint in recent weeks.
Residents in Walthamstow and Leyton have reported seeing paint splattered on bricks and windows, raising concerns about the motive behind the acts. The vandalism has also been observed in other parts of the country, but so far, no arrests have been made as the Metropolitan Police continue their investigation.
The most recent incidents occurred around Chingford Road in Walthamstow, where homes, businesses, and cars were targeted. The first case was reported on Thursday, March 13, followed by another on Tuesday. Some residents have already had to clean their properties twice.
A local resident named Hannah, speaking to the Waltham Forest Gazette, expressed her distress: "When I saw the paint, I just cried. We thought we were lucky not to be affected at first. Now, I’m at a loss. People on this street are really upset. My neighbor’s child even mistook the red paint for blood."
Waltham Forest Council has been commended for removing paint from some buildings using jet washers, although traces remain on others.
In previous incidents, including those in Leyton last month, the word “brothel” was scrawled on buildings in red paint.
The Metropolitan Police have stated that they are investigating whether these cases are connected to similar incidents outside of London. "We are aware of multiple cases of criminal damage involving red paint in Waltham Forest in recent weeks. These are being investigated by the local Safer Neighbourhoods Team to explore all possible leads and provide support to victims," a police spokesperson said.
Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy has voiced her concern, stating that it is alarming to see such incidents happening nationwide without a coordinated investigation. She criticized the delayed police response, explaining that some residents were told officers would not visit them for days despite multiple reports.
"For families and those living nearby, this is both frightening and distressing," Creasy said, urging the community to avoid speculation about the motives behind the graffiti.
The Met has said that Waltham Forest has been targeted every time in these instances but there have been prior reports of the issue around the country.
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