Three people were arrested this morning in connection with the attack on Hatzola ambulances last week

A crowd of people gathering in the dark alongside emergency services with a blue light in the background — The scene of last week’s attack in Golders Green – (Credit – Anna Mahtani)

Police have made three more arrests as part of their investigation into the arson attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green last week.

A 20-year-old man, a 19-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy were arrested at three separate addresses in East London this morning – and officers are carrying out searches of those locations.

The men are British nationals, while the boy is a dual British and Pakistani national. All three were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life in connection with last Monday’s attack, which took place near the Machzike Hadath synagogue on Highfield Road. They have been taken to a London police station where they remain in police custody.

Two men who were arrested last Wednesday (25th March) were later released on bail to a date in late-April, pending further enquiries.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, which is leading the investigation said: “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.

“As I’ve said previously, the support we had from the local community since this attack took place has been incredible, and we will continue to work closely with local policing colleagues to do everything we can to keep the public safe.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in North West London said: “We know local community concern continues to remain high – particularly for our Jewish communities as they now enter the Passover festival period. Since the arson attack, 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 has involved a significant number of officers on the ground, with the aim of protecting communities, disrupting offenders, and detecting crime. This activity is ongoing and will continue over the coming days and weeks and includes specialist officers and capability being deployed alongside local officers. It is also being supported by highly visible armed police patrols to serve as a deterrent to anyone seeking to cause our communities harm.”

The police say anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call them on 101 providing the reference 415 of 23rd March.

Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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