What Caused a Gang Feud to Result in a 9-Year-Old's Shooting?

The ongoing feud between the Hackney Turks and Tottenham Turks gangs has resulted in a significant rise in violence, impacting innocent lives and instilling fear within the local communities. This article explores the historical context of these gangs, recent violent incidents, and the challenges faced by law enforcement in combatting this escalating crime wave.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Hackney Turks and Tottenham Turks have been involved in a violent feud since 2009, resulting in numerous shootings and attacks.
• Community fear prevents witnesses from coming forward, complicating police investigations.
• Recent incidents include a shooting that injured three gang affiliates and a nine-year-old girl.
• Police efforts have improved, but funding cuts threaten the effectiveness of community policing.
• Community engagement is crucial for building trust and encouraging reporting of crimes.

Historical Context of Turkish Organised Crime in London

The emergence of Turkish organised crime in London can be traced back several decades, primarily linked to drug trafficking, particularly heroin. Over time, the influence of these gangs has grown, leading to the formation of distinct factions, notably the Hackney Turks and Tottenham Turks. The rivalry between these two groups has its roots in socio-economic factors, territorial disputes, and the dynamics of the drug trade.

In January 2009, a significant turning point occurred when a violent altercation took place in a nightclub, exacerbating tensions between the two gangs. This incident marked the beginning of a series of violent confrontations that have since escalated, leading to numerous shootings, stabbings, and arson attacks.

Recent Violent Incidents

Tragically, the violence associated with these gangs has not only affected their members but also innocent bystanders. A recent incident that exemplifies this occurred in May 2022, when a gunman opened fire outside the Evin Restaurant in Dalston, east London. The attack was reportedly aimed at three men affiliated with the Hackney Turks, resulting in gunshot wounds to their arms and legs.

The situation became dire when a stray bullet struck a nine-year-old girl, who was simply enjoying ice cream with her family. Although she survived, her injuries were severe, and the bullet remains lodged in her brain. The incident has raised significant concerns regarding public safety and the unchecked violence of organised crime in London.

The Role of Police and Community Response

Dal Babu, a former Metropolitan Police officer who encountered a gunman during his career, highlighted the challenges police face in obtaining information from the community. Despite the gravity of the situation, many locals refuse to speak out, often out of fear for their safety. Mr Babu noted, “The vast majority of the Turkish community want nothing to do with them,” referring to the gangs.

Efforts to improve police-community relations have been made, including recruiting officers who speak Turkish and understand the culture. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives is hindered by funding cuts to the police force, impacting their ability to maintain a strong presence in neighbourhoods affected by gang violence.

High-Profile Cases and Their Implications

The case of Javon Riley, who was convicted of three counts of attempted murder related to the Dalston shooting, underscores the organised nature of gang violence. Riley's role involved reconnaissance and the coordination of the attack, highlighting the calculated approaches used by these gangs. His claim of expecting to be paid for a robbery further illustrates the financial motivations behind such violent acts.

Moreover, the shooting of Jermaine Baker by police during a foiled attempt to rescue a gang member from a prison van reflects the extreme measures gangs are willing to take. The complex hierarchy within these gangs, as explained by former Met borough commander Dr Victor Olisa, shows that the leaders operate at a distance from the street-level violence, often recruiting individuals from various backgrounds to carry out their orders.

The Community's Perspective

The impact of this violence extends beyond the immediate victims, affecting entire communities. The mother of the nine-year-old girl injured in the Dalston shooting expressed the trauma experienced by families caught in the crossfire, stating, “The world we once believed was safe for our child now feels frightening and uncertain.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the Turkish community, which is predominantly non-violent and wishes to distance itself from the gangs.

Efforts to Combat Gang Violence

Detective Inspector Ben Dalloway, who led the investigation into the Dalston shooting, noted that the attack was “well organised, well planned, well scripted.” The use of stolen vehicles and false plates demonstrates the lengths to which these gangs go to evade law enforcement. Yet, police have made progress in tracing gang activities through technology like CCTV and covert recordings.

Despite these advances, the overarching challenge remains the fear that prevents witnesses from coming forward. Mr Babu emphasised the need for community cooperation, stating, “We need to take these kinds of people off the streets.” The Metropolitan Police have launched initiatives to encourage reporting, including offering rewards for information leading to arrests.

Future Challenges and Considerations

The ongoing struggle against gang violence in London is compounded by financial constraints on police resources. Dr Olisa expressed concern over the impact of budget cuts, which force the police to balance neighbourhood policing with limited manpower and experience. The effectiveness of community policing hinges on the ability to establish trust and ensure that residents feel safe in reporting crimes.

As police efforts continue, the hope is to foster a sense of security within the community. Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke has stated, “Gun crime has fallen,” but acknowledges that incidents involving innocent victims, like the nine-year-old girl, are a tragic reminder of the risks faced by the public.

Conclusion

As the feud between the Hackney Turks and Tottenham Turks persists, the violence associated with these gangs poses ongoing challenges for law enforcement and the communities affected. The need for collaborative efforts between the police and the community has never been more critical. The tragic consequences of gang violence highlight the importance of addressing the root causes and fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to speak out. How can communities and law enforcement work together to effectively combat this escalating issue?

#LondonGangs #CommunitySafety #OrganisedCrime

FAQs

What are the Hackney Turks and Tottenham Turks?

The Hackney Turks and Tottenham Turks are rival Turkish organised crime gangs in London, involved in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking and violent crime.

When did the feud between these gangs escalate?

The feud intensified significantly in January 2009, following a violent incident in a nightclub, leading to a series of violent confrontations over the years.

What recent incidents highlight the violence from these gangs?

A notable recent incident occurred in May 2022, when a gunman opened fire outside a restaurant in Dalston, injuring three men and a nine-year-old girl.

What challenges do police face in tackling gang violence?

One of the major challenges is the fear among community members to report crimes, along with funding cuts that limit police resources and their ability to maintain a strong presence in affected areas.

How can communities support police efforts against gangs?

Communities can support police efforts by building trust, engaging in open dialogue, and reporting any suspicious activities or crimes without fear of retribution.