A fourth individual has been arrested in connection with the arson attack on Jewish volunteer ambulances in north-west London, with the Metropolitan Police confirming the detention occurred in a dramatic courtroom scene.
Courtroom Arrest During Suspects' Hearing
The Metropolitan Police revealed that a 19-year-old man was arrested on Saturday morning at Westminster Magistrates Court, where three other men were being charged over the same arson incident. Officers attending the hearing recognized the man as being involved in the attack and took him into custody for arson with intent to endanger life.
The courtroom arrest unfolded as Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, both British nationals from Leyton, along with a 17-year-old boy who is a dual British and Pakistani national from Walthamstow, appeared before the court. All three were charged with arson with intent to damage property and being reckless as to whether life would be endangered. They did not enter pleas and were remanded in custody following the hearing.
Details of the Arson Attack
The attack targeted four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service operating in the Golders Green area, during the early hours of 23 March. The vehicles were set on fire, causing gas canisters stored inside to explode. The court heard there is strong evidence suggesting this was a premeditated and targeted attack against the Jewish community.
Prosecutors have indicated that an investigation is underway to determine whether an Iranian-backed group claiming responsibility was actually involved in the incident. During Saturday's hearing, the three suspects wore grey tracksuits and spoke only to confirm their names and addresses, with family members present in the courtroom.
Counter-Terrorism Investigation
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation, although the Metropolitan Police clarified that the incident has not been declared as terrorism at this stage. Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter-Terrorism Policing London, stated: Since this appalling attack last week, we have been working continuously to investigate and identify those responsible. The investigation has now reached a stage where three people have been charged and they will now appear in court.
Flanagan added: I want to reiterate that the support we had from the local community since this attack took place has been incredible, and we will continue to work closely with local policing colleagues to do everything we can to keep the public safe.
Community Response and Security Measures
In response to the attack, police patrols have been established in areas with significant Jewish populations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as a deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack when it initially occurred. The case continues to develop as authorities work to uncover all details surrounding this serious criminal act.
