Two British Men Arrested in Connection with Golders Green Arson Attack on Jewish Charity Ambulances
Two British men have been arrested by the Metropolitan Police in relation to the arson attack on four ambulances operated by the volunteer-run Jewish charity Hatzola in Golders Green, north London. The suspects, aged 47 and 45, were apprehended on Wednesday morning at addresses in the north west London and central London areas, respectively.
Details of the Arrests and Investigation
The arrests are linked to an ongoing investigation into the arson incident, which occurred at approximately 1.35am on Monday. The men were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and have been taken to a London police station, where they remain in custody. Officers are conducting searches at the two addresses, believed to be near Kilburn and Kings Cross.
CCTV footage from the scene shows three hooded individuals pouring accelerant on the parked vehicles before the fire erupted. The investigation is described as very much active, with authorities working diligently to identify all parties involved.
Impact of the Attack on the Local Community
The fire took place adjacent to the Machzike Hadath Synagogue in Golders Green, where the ambulances were parked. Residents reported being awakened by loud bangs as gas canisters stored in the ambulances exploded. The force of the explosions resulted in blown-out windows at the synagogue and nearby homes, prompting evacuations as a precautionary measure.
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, which is leading the investigation, stated: "We have been working around the clock since this appalling attack took place and this has led to these arrests being made this morning. This appears to be an important breakthrough in the investigation, but we're also mindful that CCTV footage of the incident suggests there were at least three people involved."
Community Response and Security Measures
The Community Security Trust (CST), a charity dedicated to providing security for the Jewish community, welcomed the arrests. In a statement, they expressed gratitude for the officers' tireless efforts and acknowledged that while this development is significant, the community remains concerned. As a result, police security measures and CST's operations will continue at high levels, with strong cooperation to protect the community.
Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI) has claimed responsibility for the attack online, though police are treating it as an antisemitic hate crime rather than a terror attack at this stage. The Metropolitan Police are aware of the claim and are working to verify its authenticity.
