Teenager arrested in Gravesend for attempted murder after attack on Sikh temple

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A 17-year-old boy was arrested following reports of an attempted attack on a Sikh temple.

Two women were injured in the incident at the Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend at 8.10pm on Thursday, Kent Police said.

A teenager was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and disturbing public order for religious reasons.

Images from the scene showed armed police guarding the entrance to the temple while an air ambulance landed on a nearby grassy area.

Detective Superintendent Ian Dyball of Kent Police said: “We understand the public’s concerns about the events at the Gurdwara but are treating it as an isolated incident.

“Patrols will remain in the area to provide reassurance and we thank the public for their continued support and assistance.”

It was reported that a man armed with a bladed weapon entered the scene and attempted to attack those present.

According to police, no one was seriously injured in the attempted attack, but two women required medical attention for cuts and bruises.

A temple spokesperson wrote on Facebook: “We can confirm that the incident took place after Sukhasan and Guru Granth Sahib Ji were not present in the Darbar hall.

“The Gurdwara is cooperating fully with Kent Police, who are taking this incident very seriously. The District Commander is on site to provide assistance while the investigation continues.”

They added that the temple will provide further information as soon as it becomes available.

Lauren Sullivan, MP for Gravesham, said: “I am shocked and saddened by the incident at the Gurdwara in Gravesend.

“My thoughts are with the injured, their families and their community.

“I would like to thank the emergency services for their rapid response to this terrible event.

“The exact details are still coming to light and there are many rumours circulating, so it is right that we let the emergency services deal with the situation, complete their investigation and release the information as soon as they can.”

Security Minister Dan Jarvis also posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he would be kept updated on the attack, adding: “All communities must be safe in their places of worship.”