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 arrests, made early on Wednesday, include a 19-year-old man, a 20-year-old man, and a 17-year-old boy, all from east London. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the two older men are British nationals, while the boy holds dual British and Pakistani citizenship.
The three were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life and remain in police custody. Their homes are being searched by officers. The attack occurred on 23 March on Highfield Road, near the Machzike Hadath synagogue, targeting four ambulances belonging to Hatzola Northwest, a Jewish volunteer-run charity providing free medical transport and emergency response.
Two men, aged 47 and 45, previously arrested in connection with the incident were released on bail last Thursday pending further enquiries. The investigation is being led by counter-terrorism detectives, though the incident has not been officially declared terrorism. The Met has stated it is treating the attack as an antisemitic hate crime.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of counter-terrorism policing, said: “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.” She noted that CCTV footage suggested at least three people were involved.
DCS Luke Williams, responsible for policing in north-west London, added: “We know local community concern continues to remain high – particularly for our Jewish communities as they now enter the Passover festival period. Since the arson attack, we have put in place an enhanced, bespoke policing plan, which has been focused around vulnerable areas not only in Golders Green, but right across London.”
