Authorities have apprehended three additional suspects linked to the arson incident involving ambulances owned by a Jewish charity in North London, according to the Metropolitan Police.
On March 23, four ambulances operated by Hatzola were set ablaze during the early morning hours at a synagogue located in Golders Green.
The suspects include two British males, aged 20 and 19, along with a 17-year-old dual British-Pakistani national. They are currently in police custody, facing charges of conspiracy to commit arson at three different locations in East London, following their arrests early Wednesday.
Previously, two British men, aged 47 and 45, were taken into custody on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. They have since been released on bail.
Cdr Helen Flanagan, who oversees Counter Terrorism Policing in London, stated that law enforcement has been diligently working to investigate and identify the individuals responsible for these „appalling attacks.“
„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,“ Flanagan remarked.
The police confirmed that searches were conducted at the sites associated with Wednesday’s arrests.
While the incident is not currently classified as a terrorist act, the investigation is being managed by counter-terrorism detectives.
CCTV footage captured three individuals fleeing the scene after igniting the ambulances.
The fire resulted in several explosions from oxygen canisters within the vehicles, causing windows of nearby structures, including the synagogue, to crack or shatter; fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Hatzola is a prominent non-profit organization led by the Jewish community, providing free emergency medical services and transportation to hospitals, regardless of the patients‘ faith, through volunteer medics.
Det Ch Supt Luke Williams, who oversees policing in North-West London, sought to reassure the Jewish community, which is preparing to celebrate Passover.
„Since the arson attack, we have implemented an enhanced, bespoke policing plan focused on vulnerable areas not only in Golders Green but across London,“ Williams stated.
He further noted that highly visible armed police patrols would be deployed in the coming days and weeks to collaborate with ground officers, serving as a deterrent to anyone intending to harm the community.
Bildquelle: Quelle: Foto: Markus Spiske
