Counter-terror police are leading an investigation into an arson attack on a business in Hendon, north-west London, on Friday, the Metropolitan Police has said
A counter-terror police are leading an investigation following an arson attack in London.
Metropolitan Police officers were called shortly after 10.30pm on Friday to reports of an incident in Hendon. 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, police said.
He placed the bag next to the building and lit the items inside, but thankfully the bottles failed to fully ignite. There was minor damage to the shopfront but no injuries were reported. The man fled the scene.
The Metropolitan Police said the investigation is being lead by Counter Terrorism Policing London, supported by officers from the North West Command Area. However, the force said it is not being treated as a terrorist incident.
“Officers are keeping an open mind about the motive behind the attack,” the Met said. 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.”
