A fire at a 100-year-old synagogue in Whitechapel is being treated as arson, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed. Firefighters responded to the former East London Central Synagogue on Nelson Street shortly after 5:10 a.m. on May 5, as flames engulfed the front entrance. The historic building, which has been vacant since 2020, suffered damage to its gates and lock but no injuries were reported.
CCTV Evidence and Investigation
CCTV footage shows the fire being started intentionally minutes before the blaze, leading to an investigation by counter-terrorism police. No arrests have been made, and urgent enquiries are underway to identify the suspects. Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke stated: "We are taking this incident extremely seriously and working closely with Counter Terrorism Policing. The building has not been operational as a synagogue for years, but that is little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney, and beyond."
Context of Recent Attacks
This arson follows a series of similar incidents targeting Jewish communities in northwest London. The Metropolitan Police are "considering any potential links" between these events. Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, added: "Detectives are working quickly to gather evidence. Counter-terrorism officers continue to support the Met Police. With the threat level raised to severe, everyone should report suspicious activity."
The Met launched intensive community operations after the initial arson of Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green in March. Subsequent attacks included attempted arsons at Finchley Reform Synagogue and a Persian media company. On April 27, a memorial wall in Golders Green was targeted, leading to two arrests. Days later, two Jewish men were stabbed in an apparent antisemitic attack, with Essa Suleiman charged with attempted murder.
Police Response
The Met has deployed thousands of additional officer shifts to protect Londoners and reassure communities, including armed patrols and Project Servator officers. Anyone with information about the arson is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY.
