Counter-terror police probe another arson attack in north-west London

Counter-terror police are investigating an arson attack in north-west London “due to the similarities” with recent incidents in the area.

A man was spotted approaching a row of shops carrying a plastic bag later found to contain three bottles of “fluid”, the Metropolitan Police said.

He placed the bag by a building in Hendon before lighting the items inside, it added.

When they failed to fully ignite, the man fled the scene, the force said.

No arrests have been made.

Counter Terrorism Policing London is leading the probe supported by the Met’s north-west command area.

It is not being treated as a terrorist incident nor is it currently being linked to other incidents in the area.

Police were called to the scene at 10.31pm on Friday and fire crews also attended.

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.”

Four Jewish community ambulances were torched in Golders Green in the early hours of March 23.

On Wednesday night, an “ignited container” was thrown into a Persian media organisation’s premises in Wembley in an attempted arson attack, the force said previously.

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.”