Sergeant Imran Malik heads up the policing team for South Woodford, Churchfields, Bridge and Monkhams wards. His mission is to ensure the streets are safe for all and is keen to build community confidence
Hello, South Woodford. I’m Sergeant Malik, your local police sergeant. I was born and raised in the heart of East London, a proud member of our diverse and vibrant community. As a Muslim, I’ve always appreciated the multicultural fabric of our city and have committed to being a bridge between different cultures and people. I speak six languages, a skill that allows me to connect more deeply with many of you.
Growing up, I often found myself on the receiving end of stop-and-search practices. Although I understood the intention, the experience was difficult and distancing. I saw an opportunity to be part of the change, to create a police force that respected everyone’s dignity. Thus, I became a police officer.
One of my most cherished memories growing up is playing cricket at the local Ilford Cricket School, run by Joe Hussain, father of England Test captain Nasser Hussain. Those days instilled in me the values of teamwork, discipline and fair play. I’ve also nurtured a passion for bodybuilding, which has taught me focus and dedication – attributes I bring to my work every day.
I believe in the power of mentorship and learning. In 2021, I initiated a mentoring network in the Met called TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More). This network supports officers and staff seeking promotion or looking to work in specialised roles, and encourages collaboration with our stakeholders. In the same year, I worked with Ilford Business Improvement District to organise a training session for local businesses, arming them with the knowledge and tools to combat crime. One instance highlighted how collaboration could help businesses, particularly those facing repeated offences. I encouraged them to share descriptions and patterns of known offenders, allowing Safer Neighbourhood Team patrols to respond more effectively.
My mission is to ensure the streets that raised me are safe for all. I’m dedicated to reducing violence, particularly that affecting our young people, and ensuring our town is a place where women and girls feel safer. I am committed to tackling the harm caused by drugs and to developing strategies that help deter those at risk of criminal activity.
I want to build trust and confidence within our community. I pledge to treat everyone fairly and respond to neighbourhood concerns effectively. I aim to bridge any gaps that might exist between different groups and increase public faith in the police service.
I am not just your local police sergeant; I am a part of South Woodford. I am excited to work with all of you towards a shared vision of a safe, inclusive and thriving community. Let’s create a better South Woodford together.
To contact the police in an emergency, call 999. For non-emergencies, call 101
