A 47-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life after an attempted attack on a synagogue in Finchley, north London. The Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident as what they described as an antisemitic hate crime, highlighting the seriousness with which they are treating this matter.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests
The force reported that the woman was arrested at an address in Watford just after 4.45pm on Wednesday, while the man was taken into custody at 7.15pm in the same area. Both suspects remain in police custody as inquiries continue. These arrests follow a detailed investigation into the attempted attack on the synagogue located on Fallow Court Avenue.
Details of the Attempted Attack
Officers stated that two individuals, dressed in dark clothing and wearing balaclavas, were seen approaching the synagogue just after midnight. They were carrying two bottles and a brick. The bottles, which contained a substance believed to be petrol, were smashed by the brick thrown at the building. Fortunately, neither of the bottles ignited, and the perpetrators fled the scene. No damage or injuries were reported, but the incident has caused significant alarm within the local community.
Community Response and Reassurance
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, expressed hope that the swift action by officers would provide some reassurance. He emphasised how seriously the police take attacks of this nature. However, he acknowledged the significant concern within the Jewish community, especially given the recent arson attack on four ambulances in Golders Green. Police have stated there is no suggestion that the Finchley incident is linked to the Golders Green case, for which three people have already been charged.
Increased patrols are continuing in the Finchley area, and authorities are urging anyone with concerns to speak to officers. Cantor Zoe Jacobs, senior clergy at the synagogue, responded defiantly, stating that the Jewish community would not be deterred by these cowardly acts. Instead, she affirmed their commitment to building bridges across the wider Barnet community.
Political and Public Reactions
Sarah Sackman, the MP for Finchley and Golders Green, took to social media to declare that British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear, whether taking children to nursery or attending synagogue. She stressed that the community does not want to live behind ever-higher walls. Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, expressed gratitude to the police for their swift response to what he called an appalling incident.
On Wednesday afternoon, the road approaching the synagogue was cordoned off by police, with three officers patrolling the area. Two security officers were stationed at the door of the building, with a police van nearby, underscoring the heightened security measures in place.
Synagogue's Statement and Solidarity
In a statement posted on social media, the synagogue highlighted the emotional and psychological impact of the attempted attack, describing it as significant for Jews in the community. They expressed extreme gratitude for the solidarity shown by neighbours, local police, and politicians, noting that this support helps remind them they are a community that would always choose to build bridges rather than walls.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the police using reference number 1685/15APR or to reach out to Crimestoppers anonymously. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to ensure justice and safety for all residents.
