A man has been taken into custody following an arson incident at an Islamic centre located in Maida Vale.
At approximately 12:15 AM on Tuesday, February 3, police responded to the Islamic Centre of England alongside the London Fire Brigade after receiving reports of a fire.
Investigations are currently underway, but it is believed that two incendiary devices were thrown onto the premises, resulting in damage to a cabin and a parked vehicle. The suspect reportedly fled the scene in a car.
Fortunately, the centre itself sustained no damage, and there were no injuries reported. The fires extinguished themselves prior to the arrival of emergency responders.
Investigation and Arrest
Authorities launched an investigation immediately, and by midday—less than 12 hours after the event—officers apprehended a 47-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
The suspect is currently in custody. This incident has raised concerns similar to those seen in the impact on community following murder charge in Lambeth, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the area.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated, „The Islamic Centre has previously experienced protests and confrontations between factions that support and oppose the Iranian regime. Tensions among these groups have escalated due to recent events in Iran, and we recognize that this incident may heighten community concerns. We urge everyone to remain calm and allow officers to conduct their investigation without further escalation.“
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information is encouraged to contact police at 101, referencing crime number 0069/03FEB. Similar cases, such as the murder charge of a woman in Willesden, remind us of the importance of community vigilance.
