Two men arrested in connection with a serious arson attack targeting Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green have been released on bail, according to the Metropolitan Police. The suspects, both British nationals aged 47 and 45, were detained on Wednesday on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
Investigation Continues Amid Heightened Security
While the men have been bailed until April, the investigation remains active, with strict bail conditions in place. Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, which is leading the probe, emphasised that the public will be closely monitored as further inquiries are carried out.
She stated, "Although the two men have been released from police custody, there are strict bail conditions in place while we continue to investigate their suspected involvement in this incident. I can reassure the public that we will be closely monitoring these while we carry out further inquiries."
Details of the Arson Attack
The incident occurred at approximately 1.35am on Monday, when four ambulances from Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service operating in the Golders Green area of north-west London, were set on fire. Gas canisters kept in the vehicles exploded, leading to the evacuation of nearby homes as a precaution.
Residents reported being woken by the noise, with the force of the explosions blowing out windows, including those of a nearby synagogue. The Metropolitan Police is investigating whether an Islamist group with possible Iranian state links was behind the attack.
Police Actions and Community Response
Searches have been conducted at addresses in the Kilburn and Kings Cross areas of London, where the men were arrested, as well as at two other locations in north-west London. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in north-west London, outlined enhanced security measures.
He said, "We know that community concerns remain heightened and I want to reassure the community that an enhanced, bespoke policing plan and activity, which is particularly focused around vulnerable areas right across London, will continue over coming days and weeks."
This includes deploying specialist officers, armed police patrols, and working closely with local communities to address concerns. Commander Flanagan thanked the public, especially the local Jewish community, for their support and appealed for any information that could assist the investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, providing the reference 415 of 23 March.
