Sydenham-Highlands North shul burgled

Congregants arriving at the Sydenham-Highlands North Hebrew Congregation in Johannesburg on Shabbat, 6 June, were met with an unexpected disruption after a burglary at the synagogue overnight. It prompted a police investigation and the temporary relocation of services. 

In a statement sent to the congregation on 8 June, Rabbi Yehuda Stern explained that while preparing for the Shabbat morning services, the shul’s security team had discovered that a burglary had taken place through a broken window. 

CSO and CAP were immediately called to the scene. 

“Fortunately, the damage and loss were limited. Two television screens from the foyer, two brass candelabras from the bima, and a small number of other items were taken. No Sifrei Torah, ritual items, or other significant communal assets were affected,” said Stern in the statement. 

The burglary appeared to be a purely criminal act. “At this stage, there is no indication that this was an antisemitic incident or any other form of targeted attack against the community. There is also nothing at present to suggest that this was a sophisticated or coordinated operation,” said Stern. 

“The South African Police Service was called to the scene, where statements were taken and forensic evidence, including fingerprints, was collected. The matter remains under investigation, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities,” said Stern. 

In order to allow the investigation to proceed, Shabbos services were relocated to the community centre and continued as scheduled. 

“Once the police had completed their forensic work, the main shul was reopened and is now fully operational,” he said. 

Stern said that shul management is conducting a thorough review of the incident to identify possible additional security measures, and that it remains committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all who visit the shul.