Counter-terrorism police are investigating a concerning arson attack that occurred in north-west London on Friday night, marking the latest in a series of similar incidents that have raised alarm in the community.
Incident Details in Hendon
According to the Metropolitan Police, authorities were called to the scene in Hendon at 10.31pm on Friday, with fire crews also attending the location. The incident involved a man who was spotted approaching a row of shops while carrying a plastic bag. This bag was later found to contain three bottles of an unspecified "fluid."
The individual placed the bag by a building in Hendon before attempting to light the items inside. However, when the contents failed to fully ignite, the man fled the scene, leaving behind the evidence. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with this attack.
Investigation Led by Counter-Terrorism Units
Counter Terrorism Policing London is leading the probe, with support from the Met's north-west command area. Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London emphasized that, at this stage, the arson is not being linked to other incidents in the north-west London area over the past week or to last month's arson in Golders Green. However, counter-terrorism officers are taking charge due to the similarities observed in each attack.
Commander Flanagan stated: "I would ask that anyone with information or footage that could help our investigation gets in touch with police as soon as possible. We will be relentless in our pursuit of those responsible for this and other, similar, hateful acts against London's communities."
Context of Recent Attacks
This incident follows a pattern of concerning events in the region. On March 23, four Jewish community ambulances were torched in Golders Green, an attack that has heightened tensions. Additionally, on Wednesday night, an "ignited container" was thrown into a Persian media organisation's premises in Wembley in an attempted arson attack, as previously reported by the force.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, addressed community concerns: "Since the incident in Golders Green last month we have spoken extensively to community leaders. I understand and appreciate their concerns, and I know this latest incident will add to fears in the community."
Heightened Police Presence and Community Reassurance
In response to these events, local officers are working closely with Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation. The community can expect to see a heightened police presence in the area, aimed at reassuring residents and disrupting potential offenders.
Detective Chief Superintendent Williams added: "Since last month's attack in Golders Green, we have stepped up police patrols and vigilance to reassure communities and disrupt offenders. This includes armed police patrols as well as deployments of officers from Project Servator, who are specially trained to spot anyone who may be planning or preparing to commit criminal acts."
Despite the involvement of counter-terrorism units, it is important to note that the incident is not currently being treated as a terrorist act, nor is it formally linked to other incidents in the area. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to identify and apprehend those responsible for this and related attacks.
