Fifth Suspect Arrested in Arson Attacks on Properties Linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer
A fifth individual has been arrested by police in connection with a series of arson attacks targeting properties associated with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest of a 19-year-old man from Harlow, Essex, who was taken into custody for questioning at a police station in Essex on Wednesday.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
The suspect was apprehended on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson, according to official statements from the force. Following his arrest, the 19-year-old man has been released under investigation, meaning he remains a person of interest as inquiries continue. This development marks a significant step in an ongoing probe that has already seen multiple individuals charged and arrested.
The investigation, which is being led by counter-terrorism officers, remains active and ongoing. Authorities have emphasised that the case is not being treated as terrorism-related, but rather as a serious criminal conspiracy involving deliberate acts of arson.
Background of the Arson Incidents
The arson attacks in question occurred in May of last year and targeted two properties and a car linked to Sir Keir Starmer. Court proceedings have revealed that two of the blazes took place in the Kentish Town area of north London.
One of the fires erupted in the early hours of May 12 at the residence where Sir Keir lived before becoming Prime Minister and moving into Downing Street. Just four days earlier, on May 8, a car was set alight in the same street. A third incident occurred on May 11, when the front door of a house converted into flats in Islington was targeted.
Legal Proceedings and Defendants
Three men are scheduled to stand trial at the Old Bailey in April, accused of involvement in these arson attacks. The defendants include Ukrainian nationals Roman Lavrynovych, aged 21, and Petro Pochynok, aged 35, both of whom pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life during a hearing at the Old Bailey in October last year.
Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, also pleaded not guilty to the same charge on November 28, according to a court spokesman. All three defendants have been remanded into custody and are awaiting their trial, which is set to begin on April 27.
In addition to these three individuals, a fourth man was previously arrested in connection with the case but has since been released without charge, as confirmed by a force spokesperson.
Ongoing Police Efforts
The Metropolitan Police have reiterated their commitment to thoroughly investigating these serious incidents. The involvement of counter-terrorism officers underscores the gravity with which authorities are treating the case, despite it not being classified as terrorism-related.
As the investigation progresses, police are continuing to pursue all leads and gather evidence to ensure that those responsible for the arson attacks are brought to justice. The public is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the inquiry.
