Covent Garden, a vibrant district in London known for its luxury boutiques and the Royal Opera House, is being described by local workers as a "zombie zone" due to escalating issues of homelessness, drug dealing, and crime. The area has seen a notable increase in criminal activity, with recent figures from the Metropolitan Police indicating 514 crimes were reported in the Holborn and Covent Garden area in June, a 16.8 percent rise from the 440 reported six months prior.
Business owners and residents have expressed growing concern over the deteriorating conditions. A receptionist at a local store shared that she keeps an eight-inch knife under her desk for protection, recalling a time when she was threatened with a blade during a robbery. "This place used to be nice," she stated, reflecting a sentiment of decline. Many shopkeepers have become wary of identifying themselves to the press, fearing retribution from drug dealers or users.
Waiters in the area have described the streets as feeling like a "zombie zone," with some likening the atmosphere to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" music video. A security guard at a local Tesco reported dealing with over 50 thefts daily. The prevalence of drug use is palpable, with the smell of marijuana or crack cocaine frequently present on commutes, and some flats in the vicinity have installed gates to deter pipe smokers.
The issue of homelessness is intertwined with these concerns. Several homeless individuals are frequently seen on the streets, some appearing disoriented or engaging in drug use. One barman noted that while he sympathizes with the homeless, "junkies are the problem" who steal to fund their habits. There are also suspicions that organized crime groups may be exploiting vulnerable individuals, with petty thefts sometimes occurring in exchange for drugs.
This situation has prompted community action, with residents organizing meetings with local authorities and police over the past 18 months to address the persistent petty crime and antisocial behavior. Despite efforts, including an increased police presence following a recent stabbing incident, locals feel these measures are often "too little, too late."
On Wednesday, four individuals were taken to the hospital after a stabbing incident on Endell Street, a thoroughfare lined with restaurants, shops, and barbers. Stella Gollovena, 47, has been charged with four counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm in connection with the attack. Following the incident, Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart of the Met Police assured the community that patrols have been increased and that tackling violent and antisocial behavior remains a top priority, highlighting a recent nearly quarter reduction in neighborhood crime in Camden.
Homelessness charities like St. Mungo's, which operates a hostel in the area, have expressed their thoughts for those affected by the stabbing and are cooperating with emergency services to ensure the safety of their clients and staff. The proximity of hostels for the homeless to residential areas, including a primary school, has also been a point of concern for some residents, who have expressed worries about children witnessing drug use and encountering aggressive behavior.
Locals report that the situation has worsened significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, with an increase in visible homelessness and drug activity. The area, once a bustling hub for tourists and Londoners alike, now faces a complex challenge of addressing crime, addiction, and homelessness to restore its reputation and ensure the safety of its community.