Counter-terror police investigate another arson attack

Counter-terrorism police are leading an investigation into an arson attack on a business in Hendon, north-west London.

The Met Police said a man was seen lighting a bag, which was later found to have contained three bottles with fluid in them, in the doorway. Minor damage was caused to the shopfront and no injuries were reported. Fire crews also attended.

The force added that it was not being treated as a terrorist incident, and was not currently being linked to other incidents in the area. No arrests have been made.

The Community Security Trust (CST), an organisation which provides security for Jewish people, said the building had formerly been used by the community.

The building had previously been listed as the head office of Jewish Futures, an educational charity.

The damaged doorway is located to the right of a Jewish Futures shop window, which has a to-let sign above it.

The damage is superficial and appears to be limited to scorch marks around the front door.

The shopfront is cordoned off with police tape and there are several police officers guarding the the scene.

Counter terrorism officers are also investigating attempted arson attacks on a Persian language media organisation and a synagogue in Finchley, as well as ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity set alight in Golders Green.

Commander Helen Flanagan 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.

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

Det Ch Supt Luke Williams said he understood the concerns of local residents, and added that police presence in the area had been increased, including armed patrols and officers trained to identify suspicious behaviour.

A CST spokeswoman added: "We are working closely with police to assist their investigation and to support the Jewish community.

"We urge people to remain calm and to report any suspicious activity, at any time of day or night, to police immediately on 999 and then to CST."

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