Ukrainian Arson Suspect Claimed Ignorance of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Old Bailey
A Ukrainian national accused of arson attacks on properties associated with Sir Keir Starmer informed police he had never heard of the UK Prime Minister, the Old Bailey heard. Roman Lavrynovych, 22, Petro Pochynok, 35, and Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, all deny charges of conspiracy to damage property by fire between 1 April and 13 May 2025.
Lavrynovych allegedly carried out the attacks after being recruited online by a Russian-speaking Telegram user known as 'El Money', who promised payment. During police questioning, Lavrynovych repeatedly stated he did not know who Sir Keir was, nor did he hold any animosity towards him or British politics generally. He did, however, acknowledge knowing former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The incidents include a Toyota car previously owned by Sir Keir being set ablaze in Kentish Town on 8 May 2025. Three days later, a fire occurred at flats in Islington where Sir Keir had formerly resided. On 12 May 2025, a fire was discovered at the front entrance of Sir Keir's current Kentish Town home, which was being rented to his sister-in-law.
After the final fire, 'El Money' reportedly messaged Lavrynovych, stating: "Look, you attacked the home of a very high-ranking person in Britain. I'll send you money, you need to leave the city." Lavrynovych was arrested hours later.
Lavrynovych maintained his innocence in police interviews, claiming alibis for the dates of the fires, despite phone data linking him to the locations. He also detailed being offered money for the actions but asserted he did not commit arson, claiming he felt threatened by the contact who knew his address. Carpiuc and Pochynok made no comment during their police interviews. The trial continues.
