Three Charged Over Arson Attack on Jewish Charity Ambulances in Golders Green
Arson Charges Following Golders Green Ambulance Fire
Three individuals have been charged in connection with an arson attack that saw four ambulances owned by a Jewish charity set ablaze in Golders Green, north London, last week. The Hatzola ambulances were targeted in the early hours of 23rd March within a synagogue car park, prompting a significant police investigation.
Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, both from Leyton, along with a 17-year-old dual British-Pakistani national from Walthamstow who cannot be named for legal reasons, face charges of arson with intent to damage property and being reckless as to whether life would be endangered. They were arrested on Wednesday at separate east London properties.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation, although the incident has not yet been designated as terrorism. Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Service's special crime and counter-terrorism division, issued a reminder of the active criminal proceedings and the defendants' right to a fair trial.
In response to community concerns, particularly among Jewish communities during the Passover festival, police patrols have been increased in areas with significant Jewish populations. These measures are described as precautionary and not a response to any specific threat. Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, praised the "incredible" support from the local community following the "appalling attack".
