In a dramatic development in the investigation into the arson attack on volunteer-led ambulances in Golders Green, a fourth suspect was arrested today at Westminster Magistrates' Court itself. Police officers attending a hearing for three other defendants recognized a 19-year-old man present at the court as being involved in the incident, leading to his immediate detention.
Courtroom Arrest Adds to Growing Case
The arrest was announced by prosecutor Emma Harraway during Saturday's proceedings at Westminster Magistrates' Court. According to Scotland Yard, officers made the arrest on Saturday morning after identifying the teenager while they were present for the hearing of the three other suspects. The man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and taken into police custody.
Three Defendants Remanded in Custody
The three suspects appearing in court today were Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, both British nationals from Leyton, along with a 17-year-old boy of dual British and Pakistani nationality from Walthamstow. All three were charged on Friday, April 3, with arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.
During Saturday's hearing, District Judge Paul Goldspring remanded all three defendants in custody. They are scheduled to appear next at the Old Bailey on Friday, April 24, for a preliminary hearing.
Background of the Arson Attack
The arrests and charges are connected to an ongoing investigation into an arson attack that occurred at approximately 1:35 am on Monday, March 23. During the incident, four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service operating within the Jewish community in the Golders Green area of north London, were deliberately set on fire and destroyed.
The three defendants who appeared in court today were originally arrested on Wednesday, April 1, at various locations across east London. Following their arrests, officers from Counter Terrorism Policing London conducted searches at each of their residential addresses as part of the investigation.
Expanding Investigation
With today's arrest at the courthouse, the total number of individuals arrested in connection with the Golders Green ambulance arson has now reached six. Two other men, aged 45 and 47, were arrested earlier on Wednesday, March 25. Both have since been released on bail pending further police enquiries, with their bail conditions extending until later this month.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack on the community ambulance service and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved.
