British police have arrested two men on suspicion of involvement in the arson of four ambulances belonging to the Jewish community in north London earlier this week, authorities said Wednesday.
Counterterrorism officers are investigating the incident, which occurred overnight between Sunday and Monday and was described by the British prime minister as “a deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack.”
The ambulances on fire in London
(Photo: From the X page of the Israeli Embassy in London)
Police said the suspects, aged 47 and 45, were arrested in northwest and central London respectively and remain in custody. Authorities, which have previously said they are examining a possible Iranian link, added that the investigation is ongoing after CCTV footage indicated that at least three individuals were involved in setting the ambulances on fire.
The two men, suspected of arson endangering life, were taken to a London police station where they are being held. Officers also carried out searches at both of their residences.
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London: Four ambulances belonging to a Jewish rescue organization were set on fire
(Photo: Leon Neal/Getty Images)
The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into the torching of four ambulances operated by Hatzalah, a volunteer-based emergency medical service, at around 1:40 a.m. between Sunday and Monday.
Helen Flanagan, head of counterterrorism policing in London, who is leading the investigation, said: “We have been working around the clock since this appalling attack took place and this has led to these arrests being made this morning."
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Charred remains of four ambulances burned in an arson attack
(Photo: Leon Neal/Getty Images)
“This appears to be an important breakthrough in the investigation, but we’re also mindful that CCTV footage of the incident suggests there were at least three people involved.” she added. “We fully recognize the local community will still be concerned and our investigation very much remains active and we will continue to work to identify and seek to arrest all of those who may have been involved.”
Flanagan added: “I’d like to thank the public and particularly the local Jewish community in the area for their continued support and reiterate our appeal to anyone who might have information that could assist with the investigation to get in touch with us.”
First published: 12:28, 03.25.26