Counter-terrorism officers have detained three additional suspects over the firebombing of Jewish community ambulances in north London, including a dual British-Pakistani teenager, as investigators pursue links to a suspected Iran-backed extremist group.
Men aged 17, 19 and 20 were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life following the 23 March attack that destroyed four Hatzola volunteer ambulances outside a synagogue in Golders Green. The two older suspects hold British nationality whilst the youngest possesses dual British and Pakistani citizenship.
All three remained in custody at a London police station on Tuesday, joining two previously arrested British nationals aged 47 and 45 who were released on bail last week after detention by counter-terrorism detectives.
The original incident saw hooded figures captured on CCTV apparently pouring accelerant on ambulances parked on Highfield Road near Mchzike Hadath synagogue before igniting them at approximately 1.45am. Gas canisters stored in the vehicles exploded, shattering windows in nearby flats and damaging the historic European synagogue’s roof and stained glass.
Six fire engines carrying 40 firefighters responded to extinguish the blaze, with neighbouring homes evacuated as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner has confirmed investigators are examining whether Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia—a suspected Iranian state-linked group—orchestrated the attack after a Telegram video featured mapping of the ambulance location alongside footage of the vehicles burning.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, stated: “Since this appalling attack last week, we have been working continuously to investigate and identify those responsible. We know concern among the Jewish community remains high, but I hope these arrests show that we are doing everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.”
The Metropolitan Police deployed 264 additional officers alongside specialist firearms teams, mounted units and drone operators to bolster security for Jewish communities approaching Passover following the attack.
Hatzola, established in 1979, operates as a volunteer-run organisation providing free emergency medical response and hospital transportation. Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced London Ambulance Service vehicles would replace the destroyed fleet.
Det Chief Supt Luke Williams assured residents: “We have put in place an enhanced, bespoke policing plan, which has been focused around vulnerable areas not only in Golders Green, but right across London. This activity is ongoing and will continue over the coming days and weeks.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the “deeply shocking” incident, stating: “Antisemitism has no place in our society.”
