Counter-terrorism police have arrested three individuals in connection with a suspected arson attack on ambulances operated by a Jewish charity in Golders Green, north London. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a 19-year-old man, a 20-year-old man, and a 17-year-old boy were taken into custody early on Wednesday.
The suspects were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. Their homes in east London were being searched by officers. The two older men are British nationals, while the 17-year-old holds dual British and Pakistani citizenship.
The alleged attack occurred on 23 March in Highfield Road, near the Machzike Hadath synagogue. Four ambulances belonging to Hatzola Northwest, a volunteer-run Jewish charity providing free medical transport and emergency response, were set alight. Two men aged 47 and 45 previously arrested in connection with the incident were released on bail last Thursday.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of the Met's counter-terrorism policing, stated: 'We know concern among the Jewish community remains high, but I hope these arrests show that we are doing everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.' The investigation is being led by counter-terrorism detectives, though the incident has not been declared terrorism. It is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams noted that an enhanced policing plan has been implemented across London, particularly focusing on vulnerable areas during the Passover festival period. 'We know local community concern continues to remain high – particularly for our Jewish communities,' he said.
