Counter terror cops lead investigation into arson attack after man seen with bag

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 man was seen to approach a row of shops with a plastic bag containing what was later found to be three bottles containing fluid, said the force.

He placed the bag next to the building and lit the items in the bag. However, when the bottles failed to fully ignite he fled the scene, police said. There was minor damage to the shopfront and no injuries have been reported.

Counter Terrorism Police London is leading the investigation into the incident, with support from the Metropolitan Police.

The Met Police says it is not being treated as a terrorist incident and officers are keeping an open mind about the motive behind the attack.

No arrests have been made at this time and police say it is not linked to last months arson attack on four Jewish ambulances in Golders Green, northwest London.

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.”

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.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 8987/17APRIL, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.