October 6th 2023.
Selma Taha, a member of Southall Black Sisters, recently shared a shocking account of a racist attack she and her friends experienced on the London Tube. While travelling from Camden Town to King’s Cross, Taha and her companions were confronted by a fellow passenger who pushed her suitcase towards them, almost colliding with one of them.
When Taha asked the woman to move her luggage, the situation quickly took a disturbing turn as the aggressor launched into a tirade of racist slurs. She reportedly declared “It’s not my fault you’re lesser than me” and proceeded to direct derogatory language such as calling them “slaves” and making monkey noises. The dispute escalated into a physical altercation, resulting in Taha being bitten and having clumps of her hair ripped out.
An off-duty police officer was present during the incident but, according to Taha, he did not immediately identify himself or intervene. It was only when they arrived at King’s Cross station that the officer revealed his status. Taha has expressed her fury and frustration towards the officer, arguing that his failure to take appropriate action validated the assailant’s behavior.
Taha received medical attention afterwards, including a tetanus shot and antibiotics due to a “rash” around her wounds. The British Transport Police have confirmed they responded to the altercation and arrested a 30-year-old woman on suspicion of assault and a racially aggravated public order offense. The Metropolitan Police have also acknowledged Taha’s complaint and referred the matter to the Independent Office of Police Conduct. The officer involved in the incident is currently receiving welfare support during the investigation.
Taha’s case has caused a stir and has raised important questions about how such racially motivated incidents are handled on public transport. Organizations like Southall Black Sisters and London’s Victim’s Commissioner have called for justice to be served against the attacker and the officer. It is yet to be seen what the outcome of this investigation will be and whether it will lead to a change in how such incidents are addressed.
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