Third arrest in Finchley synagogue attempted arson investigation

Detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London investigating an attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Finchley have arrested a 19-year-old man.

The man was arrested at an address in Portsmouth this morning (Thursday, 7 May) on suspicion of attempted arson. He has been taken into custody.

He is the third person arrested in the investigation into the attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Fallow Court Avenue, Finchley, in the early hours of 15 April.

No damage was caused to the building and no injuries were reported.

A 38-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man were arrested at an address in Watford on suspicion of arson endangering life the same day of the attack. They are currently on bail to a date in July.

The investigation is being led by detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of CTP London, said: "We are continuing to make progress in all our ongoing investigations linked to various recent arson attacks across London.

“Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to the incidents. We’re providing 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.”

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 30 people arrested as part of the various CTP investigations connected to these.

Of those 30, 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.

The most recent incident was an arson attack at a former synagogue in east London on Tuesday, 5 May.

Detectives investigating are aware of the potential change of use of this building and keeping an open mind as to any motivation behind this incident.

There have been no arrest in connection with this incident. Enquiries continue.

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.