Ninth arrest in investigation into Hatzola ambulances arson

Detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London investigating an arson attack on volunteer-led ambulances run by the Jewish community, have arrested a man on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson.

The [I} 48-year-old man is the ninth person to be arrested following the arson attack on four Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green in the early hours of March 23.

The latest arrest took place in Leytonstone High Road yesterday (May 7) and the man has been taken into custody.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of CTP London, said: "The attack on the Hatzola ambulances caused considerable community concern and we have been working continuously to investigate this incident.

“Our aim is to arrest and charge all those responsible for the arson attacks and other incidents targeted at Jewish, Israeli and Iranian sites in recent weeks.

“Counter-terrorism officers are also working closely with our Metropolitan Police colleagues to provide protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses.

“With the threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you have concerns about someone behaving suspiciously, please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.”

The Metropolitan Police announced this week a new dedicated Community Protection Team of 100 extra officers that will provide a more visible, intelligence‑led and coordinated presence focused on protecting Jewish communities across London.

The new team brings together neighbourhood policing, specialist protection and counter terrorism capabilities. The intention is to create a more sustainable and consistent model of community protection built around local knowledge, visibility and partnership.

Following the attack on the Hatzola Ambulances in March and a number of other arson attacks and incidents subsequent to that, there have been a total 31 people arrested as part of the various CTP investigations connected to these.

Of those, eight people have been charged with various offences, one of whom (a 17y/o boy) has pleaded guilty to arson in connection with the Kenton Synagogue incident. Four people have been charged in connection with the arson attack on the Hatzola ambulances.

A 19-year-old man arrested in Portsmouth on May 7 on suspicion of attempted arson has been bailed until a date in July.