Counter-terror authorities are spearheading a probe after a fire-raising incident occurred in London. Metropolitan Police responded to a call just after 10:30 pm on Friday regarding an incident in Hendon, with the London Fire Brigade also on scene.
According to police, a man was spotted approaching a line of shops carrying a plastic bag containing three bottles of fluid. He placed the bag beside the building and ignited its contents, but fortunately, the bottles did not fully catch fire, resulting in only minor damage to the shopfront and no reported injuries. The man fled before authorities arrived.
While Counter Terrorism Policing London is overseeing the investigation with support from officers in the North West Command Area, the Metropolitan Police clarified that the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act. They are maintaining an open investigation into the motive, with no arrests made as of now.
Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London stated that while the recent arson is not directly linked to other incidents in the area, similarities prompt Counter Terrorism officers to lead the investigation. She urged anyone with relevant information or footage to contact the police promptly, emphasizing a relentless pursuit of those responsible for such hateful acts in London’s communities.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, responsible for policing in the region, assured the community of a heightened police presence following recent incidents. Collaborating closely with Counter Terrorism Policing, local officers are working to support the investigation and enhance security measures, including increased patrols and vigilance to reassure and safeguard the community.
Additionally, armed police patrols and deployments of specially trained officers from Project Servator are being employed to identify and deter potential criminal activities.