Counter-Terrorism Police Investigate Latest London Arson

Counter-terrorism officers are leading an investigation into an attempted arson attack on a business premises in Hendon, north-west London. The incident, which occurred on Friday night, involved an individual placing a bag containing three bottles of flammable liquid next to a shopfront and attempting to ignite them. The bottles failed to fully catch fire, resulting in only minor damage, and the suspect subsequently fled the scene. No injuries were reported.

Despite the involvement of specialist counter-terrorism police, the incident is not being classified as a terrorist act, nor is it currently being linked to other recent arsons in the area. However, Commander Helen Flanagan stated that counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation due to the “similarities of each attack.”

This latest event follows a series of other suspicious incidents under investigation by the same unit. These include attempted arson attacks on a Persian language media organisation and a synagogue in Finchley, as well as ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity being set alight in Golders Green. The pattern of these actions, while officially unlinked, suggests a concerning trend of targeted incidents within London’s communities.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams acknowledged local residents’ concerns, confirming an increased police presence in the area, including armed patrols.