Counter-terrorism police are investigating a suspected arson attack at a former synagogue.
Jewish security charity Shomrim stated that fire crews were dispatched to the building on Nelson Street, Whitechapel, east London, in the early hours of Tuesday.
This follows a series of arson attacks on Jewish community sites in the capital and the recent stabbings of two Jewish men in Golders Green last week.
The Metropolitan Police reported that officers were called just before 5:15 am by the London Fire Brigade, noting minor damage to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building.
CCTV footage revealed that the fire had been started intentionally minutes earlier, according to the force.
Man arrested for murder after woman found dead on New Year's Eve
No injuries were reported.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who leads policing in the area, stated: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously, and we will be working closely with colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation.
“The building targeted has not been operational as a synagogue for some years, but that will be of little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney, and beyond, who are foremost in my thoughts this morning.
“Local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while inquiries into this incident continue.”
The former synagogue in Whitechapel was set to be auctioned earlier this year, with a separate bid from a Muslim group to purchase the building and convert it into a mosque and community center.
Since late March, there have been a series of arson attacks at Jewish sites in London, along with a double stabbing in Golders Green being treated as an act of terrorism.
Most of the attacks have been claimed by a group called Hayi, suspected of being backed by Iran to create division in Britain.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is hosting a meeting of senior public figures on Tuesday to advance the UK’s response to antisemitism.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter-Terrorism Policing London, said: “This incident follows a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north-west of the city, and we will be considering any potential links as their investigation begins.
Rowdy revellers storm fence to break into sold-out New Year's Eve firework event
“Detectives are already working swiftly to gather evidence and identify those responsible, and I urge anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police.
“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 organizations, community venues, and businesses.
“With the (terrorism) threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part in keeping themselves and their communities safe.
“If you see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.”
Anyone with information about the Nelson Street arson can contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY.
Deputy Editor & UK News
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
