Two separate incidents of horrific violence hit South London, leaving two men dead and four others seriously injured in less than an hour on Sunday. The communities affected are demanding action and more support from the authorities to address the rising crime rates.
The first attack took place at around 10.40 am on Sunday when 77-year-old Hilkiah McLeggan was stabbed to death in Walworth’s East Street Market. Two other men were also found with serious stab injuries and were taken to the hospital, with one of them in critical condition. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of McLeggan.
The East Street Community (ESC) is now taking steps to enhance safety measures in the market, including providing first aid training for traders and developing emergency protocols to prevent such incidents from happening again. The market traders are calling for all stakeholders to prioritize security and safety in the area.
In a separate incident less than an hour earlier, 30-year-old Curtis Green was shot and killed in Wells Park Road, Sydenham. His family described him as happy, excited, and a father-to-be. The community is frustrated by the recurring violence in the area, with residents expressing concerns about drug-related crimes and gang activities.
The lack of police presence and the need for more proactive measures to address knife and gun crime in the neighborhood have been highlighted by residents. The community is calling for immediate action from the government and law enforcement agencies to tackle the escalating violence and ensure the safety of the residents.
No arrests have been made in connection with either of the incidents, and the police are appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information. The tragic events have shaken the community, but efforts are being made to reassure the public that the affected areas remain safe spaces for everyone.
Councillor Natasha Ennin, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhoods, has emphasized the commitment to supporting traders and enhancing security measures in response to the recent violence. The authorities are working on improving security and increasing patrols to ensure the safety of the community in the long term.
The incidents have sparked fear and concern among the residents, but the communities are coming together to demand action and prevent such tragedies from happening again. The need for a collective effort to address the root causes of violence and ensure the safety of everyone in the neighborhood is crucial.
