Counter-terrorism police are investigating an arson attack on a business in Hendon, north-west London, according to a statement released on Apr. 18. The Metropolitan Police said a man was seen lighting a bag containing three bottles with fluid in the doorway of the building. The incident caused minor damage to the shopfront, but no injuries were reported.
The Met Police said that fire crews attended the scene and that “it was not being treated as a terrorist incident and officers are keeping an open mind about the motive behind the attack.” No arrests have been made so far.
The Community Security Trust (CST), which provides security for Jewish people, said that the building had formerly been used by members of the Jewish community. It had previously served as the head office for Jewish Futures, an educational charity. The damaged doorway is located next to a Jewish Futures shop window with a ‘to-let’ sign above it.
Police have cordoned off the shopfront with tape, and several officers are guarding the area. Counter terrorism officers are also investigating other recent attempted arson attacks in north-west London, including incidents at a Persian language media organisation and at a synagogue in Finchley, as well as ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity set alight in Golders Green.
Commander Helen Flanagan said: “At this stage last night’s arson is not being linked to other incidents in the north-west London area over the last week or last month’s arson in Golders Green but counter terrorism officers are leading due to the similarities of each attack.” She added: “We will be relentless in our pursuit of those responsible for this and other, similar, hateful acts against London’s communities.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams said he understood local concerns and confirmed that police presence has increased in Hendon with additional armed patrols and officers trained to identify suspicious behaviour.
A CST spokeswoman stated: “We are working closely with police to assist their investigation and to support the Jewish community. We urge people to remain calm and to report any suspicious activity, at any time of day or night, to police immediately on 999 and then to CST.”
