Tormented by racist thugs

A father-of-two whose family has been subjected to threats, violence and arson at the hands of a racist mob has spoken out against his “ignorant” attackers.

Manny Amoah, 53, says he and his family have had racist taunts, missiles thrown at them and there was even a fire attack at their Carshalton home during a spree of violence last weekend.

The Ghanian-born retired train manager has lived in Mill Lane for eight-and-a-half years and has never experienced racism in the quiet suburb.

Police were called out five times over the weekend after the window of his BMW was smashed, rocks and wood were thrown at his property, a 20-strong gang of men harassed him chanting National Front songs, and a banner he put outside his home to celebrate his wife’s 50th birthday was burned on his doorstep. He and his family are now being protected by 24-hour police patrols because they fear further attacks.

Mr Amoah, a British citizen, praised his neighbours and police for their prompt action and support, but approached the Comet to highlight the problem.

He said: “Nobody wants to be living like this. Our kids can’t go to the park, they can’t go swimming. I’ve got to keep them at home because no one knows what’s going to happen.” He has contacted the police crime support unit and is waiting to find out if cameras can be installed for extra protection.

The Amoah’s neighbours have come to their aid – one even put out the fire on his doorstep.

One nearby resident said: “I’ve never seen this before, we have never known prejudice here. It is such a terrible way to carry on.” Mr Amoah just wants his life to get back to normal and says the racists, many of whom he believes come from outside the area, have no place in Carshalton.

Chief Inspector Warren Shadbolt said: “We will endeavour to bring those responsible to justice.” Police were unable to confirm if any arrests had been made.