Alleged anti-semitic attack on youths in Rosebank

According to Wendy Kahn, national director of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, three male Jewish youths were walking out of a movie at around 10.30pm when they were approached by the three males on Human Rights Day.

The assailants allegedly hurled anti-semitic insults at the youths and physically assaulted two of the three youngsters.

“[The Jewish boys] were wearing kippah [yarmulke],” said Kahn, who stated that the attack was motivated by anti-semitism as the boys were clearly identified, and the statements directed at them included references to religious and political tension in the Middle East.

It is alleged that the three assailants, who are not known to the Jewish youths, fled the scene after the physical altercation.

Kahn was informed of the incident the following day on 22 March, when complaints were also laid by the victims at the Rosebank Police Station.

Kahn noted her concern over this incident, “We have been seeing an escalation of verbal anti-semitism [in South Africa], but this is the first time it has crossed the line to a physical attack.

“We are so proud that we have not had violent antisemitic incidents [in South Africa], this is why it’s so important that we deal with this seriously to make sure these incidents don’t occur.”

Rosebank police have confirmed that two cases of common assault have been opened. Spokesperson Sergeant Bongi Mdletshe noted the cases are currently under investigation and said no suspects have been arrested thus far.

Salina Ramdass, property manager of the Zone at Rosebank, said that management was aware of the incident. “The Zone at Rosebank’s security is working together with [the police] to assist with the investigation,” said Ramdass.

This is an ongoing story.

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