Bexley Council Confirms Fake Asylum Seeker Letters Sent to Residents

Bexley residents have received a fake letter falsely claiming asylum seekers are being housed in the borough. The misleading correspondence, dated August 24, advised residents on personal conduct and property security. Bexley Council has confirmed the letter is fake and has referred the matter to the Metropolitan Police.

Misleading Advice Issued

The fake letter, which claimed to be from Bexley Council, advised residents to keep daughters indoors where possible and, if they had to go outside, to dress appropriately to avoid 'tempting' men. It suggested long skirts or trousers and covered shoulders. The letter also contained advice regarding pets, stating dogs should be kept indoors as they are offensive to some religions, and suggested residents consider rehousing them. Further warnings included keeping cars and property windows locked, and securing garden tools, bikes, and other movable property out of sight.

Council Confirms Letter is Fake

Bexley Council has confirmed that the letter, titled ‘Neighbourhood Notice, New Residential Occupancy’, is not from the council. A council spokesperson stated: “We wish to make it clear that this letter is NOT from the Council and we have referred the matter to the Metropolitan Police.” Residents who received the letter have been asked to contact Bexley Council's Community Safety team.

The origin and the extent to which the fake letters have been circulated are currently unknown. The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for further information.