Officers believe the pig heads were all left outside the premises this morning
The animal heads were left outside schools in Lambs Lane South and Upminster Road South, as well as a youth centre in Viking Way. One of the schools was reportedly Rainham Harris Academy School.
The first one was found at around 4am this morning (Friday, 26 July).
The lead for Havering Neighbourhoods Policing, Superintendent Simon Hutchison said: “These incidents are being treated as Islamophobic hate crimes. I know that people in Rainham are as shocked and appalled at these acts as am I.
“We have spoken with local Muslim faith leaders, community representatives and elected officials to provide details of these offences and understand community concerns on this matter. An investigation is underway to identify the offender(s) and bring them to justice.”
The Met’s investigation is led by CID officers responsible for investigating crime in Havering.
Enquiries at the scenes and a thorough CCTV trawl is under way.
Additional patrols are being carried out in the area.
In a statement, Margaret Mullane Labour MP for Dagenham and Rainham said: “This is an appalling and disgusting act which I condemn in the strongest possible terms. Attempts like this to stoke up division and hate stand in the way of building community cohesion.
“I hope the authorities will take this incident seriously and make all efforts to find and hold responsible the culprits of this hate crime.
“I have always stood against the politics of division, and as the Member of Parliament for Dagenham and Rainham, my work will always focus on bringing communities together. I know the vast majority of people in our area feel the same.”
Anyone who saw anyone or anything suspicious or who has information that may assist the investigation is asked to call 101, ref 1878/26JUL. To remain anonymous, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers.
Information can also be provided directly to the charity Tell Mama – via their website – which supports victims of anti-Muslim hate.
