Counter-terrorism officers have arrested two people in connection with an alleged arson attack at a former synagogue in Tower Hamlets
Counter-terrorism detectives investigating a suspected arson attack at a former synagogue in east London have arrested two people.
A 45-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman were apprehended on Sunday (May 10) on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson and remain in police custody. Officers were alerted at approximately 5.15am on May 5 by the London Fire Brigade following reports of a blaze at a former synagogue in Nelson Street, Tower Hamlets, reports the Mirror.
“CCTV enquiries indicated that the fire was started intentionally at around 05:10hrs,” the Metropolitan Police said. “Given the nature and location of the incident, the investigation has been led by Counter Terrorism Policing [CTP] London.”
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of CTP London, said: “Today’s arrests are a significant step in our investigation into this attack and our enquiries are ongoing.”
“Our aim continues to arrest and charge all those responsible for the arson attacks and other incidents targeted at Jewish, Israeli and Iranian sites in recent weeks. We will not tolerate these hateful attacks on communities.
“While counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with Metropolitan Police colleagues to provide protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe.”
She encouraged anyone with worries about suspicious activity to contact police.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter, responsible for policing across Hackney and Tower Hamlets, stated: “This attack happened at a synagogue in the process of being sold to a local Somali Muslim organisation, and I know that those of all faiths in the local area have felt targeted and together condemn this horrendous act.”
He continued: “I want to reiterate that no hate crime, no matter who it is against, will be tolerated. It is completely unacceptable and has no place here.”
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that in the wake of the alleged assault on Hatzola Ambulance in March, alongside several other incidents, 33 individuals have been detained as part of various CTP inquiries.
Among them, eight have been charged with offences, including a 17-year-old boy who has pleaded guilty to arson following an attack on Kenton United Synagogue in Shaftsbury Avenue, Harrow, on April 18.
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