As the riots continue across the UK, with rumours of more planned in London tonight (7 August), people and businesses are fearing for their safety.
Over 30 Locations nationwide have been reported to expect protests.
Divyesh Ruparelia, 61, has chosen to flee his hometown of Harrow tonight in a bid to ensure the safety of himself and his wife.
READ MORE: Sombre inquest begins for girls killed in Southport attack
He was already considering doing so on Monday (5 August), but the decision was cemented today after spotting that even his local gym – The Gym Group – would shut its doors.
“I’m absolutely terrified,” the cab driver, who lives in North Harrow, told Need To Know.
“It’s a nightmare coming true.
“I went this morning at 7am, and spotted the sign outside.
“I had asked a few trainers yesterday if they were going to be closed, but they weren’t sure.
“I’m not surprised by the decision.
“We’re going about five miles north of where we live to keep away from the area until it’s safe to come back.
“Myself and my wife discussed this on Monday and I thought she would say no – but after seeing everything that has been going on – it’s a wise move.”
Divyesh has lived in the area for most of his life and says he “wasn’t shocked” when seeing the riots emerge.
He said: “Considering the last four years of politics, I am not surprised.
“When information about the person who carried out the Southport attack came out, I saw misinformation that he was a Muslim who came on a dinghy as an asylum seeker.
“Immediately, I thought something like this would be coming – it was only a matter of time.
“London is a very multicultural place, especially my gym, so today, we will all be supporting each other, no matter our race or ethnicity.”
Divyesh is hoping his plans to flee will not only protect the family’s safety but also his car, which is the main source of his earnings.
Although not surprised by the riots, he was shocked to hear about them coming to Harrow.
He added: “It’s a really nice area, things like this don’t happen here.
“I’m worried that shops will be attacked, though most are now either closed or have shut their shutters down.
“It’s the sheer damage these rioters could inflict on my area that scares me the most.”
Ahead of the expected protests, Harrow Council, along with the area’s policing lead, has issued a joint statement.
“Like most people across the nation, we are appalled by the violent incidents seen in the news,” they said.
“We understand the unease residents may feel and are working together to ensure the safety of our residents and businesses.
“We condemn violence and hatred in all its forms – it has no place in our society.
“Keeping Harrow and our residents safe will always be our top priority.”
Jam Press has contacted The Gym Group for comment.
READ MORE: Quick-thinking man attempts to stop fire burning down his home during far-right riots
