Investigation launched into arson at business in Hendon

An investigation is under way into an arson attack on a business in Hendon.

Police were called at 22:31hrs on Friday, 17 April to reports of the incident. The London Fire Brigade also attended.

A man was seen to approach a row of shops with a plastic bag containing what was later found to be three bottles containing fluid. He placed the bag next to the building and lit the items in the bag. The bottles failed to fully ignite and the man fled the scene.

Minor damage was caused to the shopfront and no injuries were reported.

The investigation into the incident is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, supported by officers from the North West Command Area. It is not being treated as a terrorist incident and officers are keeping an open mind about the motive behind the attack.

No arrests have been made at this time.

Commander Helen Flanagan, of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: “At this stage last night’s arson is not being linked to other incidents in the North West London area over the last week or last month’s arson in Golders Green but Counter Terrorism officers are leading due to the similarities of each attack.

“I would ask that anyone with information or footage that could help our investigation gets in touch with police as soon as possible.

“We will be relentless in our pursuit of those responsible for this and other, similar, hateful acts against London’s communities.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, said: “Since the incident in Golders Green last month we have spoken extensively to community leaders. I understand and appreciate their concerns, and I know this latest incident will add to fears in the community.

“Local officers are working closely with Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation.

“The community can expect to see a heightened police presence in the area. Since last month’s attack in Golders Green, we have stepped up police patrols and vigilance to reassure communities and disrupt offenders.

“This includes armed police patrols as well as deployments of officers from Project Servator, who are specially trained to spot anyone who may be planning or preparing to commit criminal acts.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 8987/17APRIL, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.