Finchley Synagogue Targeted in Failed Firebomb Attack
The Metropolitan Police have launched an urgent investigation after masked suspects attempted to firebomb a North London synagogue overnight. The shocking incident at Finchley Reform Synagogue is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, authorities confirmed on April 15.
Details of the Attack
Two individuals wearing balaclavas targeted the Fallow Court Avenue building shortly after midnight. According to police statements, the suspects hurled two bottles believed to contain petrol along with a brick at the synagogue. Fortunately, neither of the flammable projectiles ignited, and no significant damage was sustained by the building.
The incident was reported to authorities at 8:30 AM, prompting what police described as an "urgent" effort to identify those responsible. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the attempted attack.
Community Response and Heightened Security
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, addressed community concerns directly. "We are aware of the significant concern that this incident will cause in the community, particularly in the wake of the arson attack in Golders Green last month," Williams stated. "We are working with the affected synagogue and continuing to meet with community leaders."
Residents of Finchley have been informed to expect an increased police presence in the coming days, with additional officers being deployed to the area as a precautionary measure.
Pattern of Recent Attacks
This failed attempt comes just weeks after a separate arson attack in the same North London area. In that previous incident, four Hatzola ambulances were set alight in the early hours, causing multiple gas canisters to explode. Three individuals—Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and a 17-year-old boy—have been charged with arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered in connection with that attack.
Statements from Community Leaders
The clergy team of Finchley Reform Synagogue released a powerful statement addressing the emotional and psychological impact of the attack. "When something threatens our physical space and our community, it also strengthens our resolve to invest our time and our love in positive expressions of our Judaism and our values," the statement read.
They continued with a message of resilience: "For generations, Jews have responded to hatred with an affirmation of our purpose, refusing to have our identity defined by those who would do us harm. We are extremely grateful for the solidarity of our neighbours, local police and politicians."
Political Response
Finchley and Golders Green MP Sarah Sackman visited the synagogue and expressed her determination to address the rising antisemitism. "This shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue follows a series of alarming attacks on the Jewish community in Finchley and Golders Green," Sackman stated. "As your local MP, and as a member of the community, I refuse to allow this to become the 'new normal'. British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear."
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan also responded to the incident, expressing gratitude for the Metropolitan Police's swift response. "The incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, and there is an increased police presence in place in the local area," Khan confirmed. "While thankfully no-one was injured, the Met are urging anyone with information to come forward."
Call for Information
Detective Chief Superintendent Williams made a direct appeal to the public for assistance. "I would like to reassure the community that we take incidents of this nature extremely seriously and detectives are working urgently to identify the suspects," Williams said. "If you have any CCTV, dash cam footage or information that could help officers please contact the police."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 101, quoting reference number 1685/15APR. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.
