Two individuals have been arrested in connection with a suspected arson attack at a memorial wall in Golders Green, north-west London, as part of a counter-terrorism investigation. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a 46-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman were detained at an address in Romford, east London, where officers are also conducting searches. Both suspects were arrested on suspicion of arson and remain in custody at a London police station.
Incident Details
The suspected arson occurred at approximately 12:15 AM on Monday, 27 April, and was reported to authorities just before 7:30 PM that same day. The memorial wall, which is situated near a Jewish centre, serves as a tribute to thousands of protesters killed during a crackdown in Iran in January. Fortunately, the wall itself was not damaged in the incident.
Counter-Terrorism Investigation
Scotland Yard has stated that while the investigation is being led by counter-terrorism police, the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act. Over the past month, counter-terrorism officers have made more than two dozen arrests in connection with attacks on Jewish-linked premises, including the torching of ambulances belonging to the Jewish volunteer emergency service Hatzola in Golders Green on 23 March.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of counter-terrorism policing London, said: 'We are committed to protecting vulnerable communities in the capital. Detectives have been conducting extensive enquiries since this incident was reported to us last week, and these two arrests are the result of that hard work.'
She added: 'CTP London is working on a number of investigations into incidents that have taken place in north-west London since the attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green in March. We have made a total of 30 arrests and nine people have been charged. Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan police in response to the various incidents. We’re providing protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses.'
Commander Flanagan concluded: 'With the threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you have concerns about someone behaving suspiciously, please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.'
