In a statement issued today (October 22), the Mayor, Brenda Dacres, said her “thoughts are with the family and friends of the victims” after what she described as a “worrying and upsetting” time for the community.
She added that keeping residents safe remains the council’s top priority, and confirmed that enforcement teams are working closely with police to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour.
The statement reads: “I know it is worrying and upsetting when these things happen on our doorstep.
“Keeping our residents safe remains our top priority, and we continue to support the Police to fully investigate these acts.
“I want to thank them for their swift response in Catford.
“I know many people have questions, quite rightly, around what is being done to address crime and violence in the area.”
The statement comes after man was taken to hospital after another stabbing on Winslade Way, near Catford Mews, at around 7.30pm on Tuesday (October 21).
A man was treated at the scene and taken to hospital “as a priority”.
His condition is not yet known, and no arrests have been made.
It is the fourth stabbing in a week in Catford since October 15, when a man was stabbed to death on nearby Rushey Green.
Later that day a second man was stabbed in Mountsfield Park.
Police have been unable to confirm the severity of his condition.
On Monday (October 20) a teenage boy was stabbed on Canadian Avenue.
His injuries are not life-changing or threatening.
According to the latest updates from police, there have been no arrests in relation to any of these incidents.
Police have confirmed that none of the incidents are connected.
Police have confirmed that additional resources have been deployed, and active enquiries remain ongoing into each incident, including searching for those responsible.
The statement continues: “If you have any information that can assist police, then please do come forward, even if you aren’t sure it is helpful.
“It’s important to report what you have seen so the perpetrators can be caught.
“If you have any information for police, then please call 101 stating CAD6958/21Oct.”
Last week, Lewisham Council confirmed that the police have secured funding for additional foot patrols every week in the area.
Brenda and the council met with the police on Monday (October 20) to discuss where these extra patrols will be deployed each week.
In addition, the Council is ensuring its enforcement activity targets issues such as anti-social behaviour, as well as focussing on hotspot areas.
The statement continues: “We are undertaking joint operations as a priority and will be able to report back as they happen.
“I know recent reports have shown that violent crime overall is down in London and we are consistently below many other European capital cities, however one death and one crime will always be too many and we are determined to find a way forward that stops this shocking display of violence.
“I know that this is a concerning time for our community and I want to reassure you we are doing everything we can and will continue to work in partnership with the Police and our residents to improve community safety.”
