Counter-terrorism authorities have detained two individuals in connection with a suspected arson incident at a former synagogue in east London. The suspects, a 45-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman, were apprehended on Sunday for allegedly planning to commit arson and are currently under police custody.
The London Fire Brigade received a call at approximately 5:15 am on May 5 regarding a fire at the abandoned synagogue on Nelson Street, Tower Hamlets. Investigations revealed through CCTV footage that the fire was deliberately ignited around 05:10 am. Due to the circumstances and location of the incident, Counter Terrorism Policing [CTP] London has taken charge of the inquiry.
Commander Helen Flanagan, in charge of CTP London, emphasized the significance of the recent arrests in the investigation. Efforts are ongoing to identify and prosecute all individuals responsible for the series of arson attacks targeting Jewish, Israeli, and Iranian establishments in the area. The authorities are determined to combat such hateful acts against communities.
Collaborating closely with the Metropolitan Police, counter-terrorism units are providing security advice and assistance to various organizations, community centers, and businesses. Commander Flanagan encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter, overseeing policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, denounced the attack on the synagogue, which was in the process of being sold to a local Somali Muslim group. He stressed that all faiths in the community have united against such despicable actions and reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards hate crimes.
The Metropolitan Police disclosed that a total of 33 individuals have been arrested in connection with various CTP investigations, including the recent attack on Hatzola ambulances. Among them, eight individuals have been formally charged, including a 17-year-old who admitted to arson at Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow.