Teen Arrested for Attempted Murder in Gravesend Gurdwara Stabbing in Kent, UK

In a shocking turn of events, a 17-year-old boy has been arrested on charges of attempted murder following an alleged stabbing incident at a Gurdwara in Gravesend, Kent, on Thursday night. A dramatic video captured the moment police officers subdued and detained the teenager at the scene of the crime, which took place at the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara. The aftermath saw worshippers nursing wounds to their arms, hands, and wrists.

The incident comes just two weeks after Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner’s visit to the same Gurdwara, where she met with community leaders to discuss Labour’s partnerships with faith communities ahead of the upcoming general election.

Kent Police reported that the two victims sustained injuries that, thankfully, were not life-threatening. Authorities have confirmed they are not seeking any additional suspects. The police maintained a substantial presence in the area overnight, with multiple officers and an air ambulance on the scene.

A spokesperson for Kent Police detailed the timeline of events: “Kent Police was called at 8:10 pm on Thursday 11 July to a report of a disturbance at a Gurdwara on Saddington Street in Gravesend. It was reported that two people had sustained injuries that were not considered to be life-threatening and are being treated locally. A 17-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident but remain on scene while enquiries are ongoing.”

Eyewitness accounts painted a chaotic scene. One resident told Kent Online: “The police helicopter was circling over the town centre at around 8 pm. Shortly afterward, the air ambulance landed in the grounds of the Gurdwara. There were two ambulances and five police vehicles parked in Trinity Road, which was taped off by Holy Trinity primary school. A neighbour said that she’d heard two people had been stabbed inside the Gurdwara with a large knife.”

Local MP Dr. Lauren Sullivan expressed her dismay over the incident: “I am shocked and saddened by the incident at the Gurdwara in Gravesend this evening. My thoughts are with those hurt, their family, and the community. I would like to thank the emergency services for their swift response to this awful event. Full details are still emerging, and it is right to let the emergency services deal with the situation, complete their investigation, and release information as they can.”

Similarly, Tan Dhesi, the Labour MP for Slough, voiced his concern on social media: “Distressed to learn of stabbing attack at Gravesend Gurdwara, where I’ve worshipped on many occasions. Government must do more to tackle such anti-Sikh hate crimes, because Gurdwaras are supposed to be our peaceful place for prayer, refuge and reflection.”

As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, grappling with the shock of violence in a place of worship.