‘Pranksters’ target Orthodox Jews with water pistols in viral video

The video was not, it appears, an isolated incident either – it seems to be part of a series of similar stunts directed at Orthodox Jews.

Two other clips posted to the same Instagram account show the pranksters approaching  strictly-Orthodox men in an airport.

In what they call an “Apple Pay prank,” the men hold their phones up to their victims, triggering the Apple Pay sound effect and then falsely claiming to have taken money.

“You are very rich, I just got £60 from you,” one of the pranksters can be heard telling a Jewish holidaymaker.

The clips of the “pranks” against Jews have collectively drawn nearly one million views on Instagram and attracted a wave of antisemitic comments in the replies.

Facing a backlash from the community, the pranksters have since edited their posts featuring Orthodox Jews to include a disclaimer, reading: “This video was made purely for humorous purposes. It is just a joke and not hate speech in any way. Please do not take it the wrong way.”

A CST spokesperson told the JC: “We are aware of an appalling antisemitic video circulating on social media and are in touch with police.”

The operator of the Instagram page told the JC: “I honestly don’t understand the hate we’re getting right now. It was just a simple water gun prank using a small toy — nothing more.

"I have two other “Water Gun Prank” videos filmed with British people, and everyone was smiling, laughing, and the vibe was great.

"I don’t understand how this suddenly became labeled as hate speech. It’s not hate speech in any way — it’s just a normal human joke, nothing offensive or targeted.

"We do not accept being called hateful or being accused of spreading hate speech. That’s simply not true. We respect all people regardless of their race. There was absolutely nothing antisemitic about it, and we thank you for reaching out and showing interest thank you.

“This was meant to be light-hearted and humorous. If anyone felt offended, we sincerely apologise.”

Greater Manchester Police told the JC: “We are aware of footage circulating online appearing to show occupants of a vehicle spraying water at members of the Jewish community.

“A crime has been recorded, with multiple lines of enquiry being actively investigated.

“We are working closely with partners to provide reassurance to the communities impacted, and we encourage anyone who has been targeted to contact us on 999, 101, or by reporting on our website.”