Police appeal following Finchley synagogue arson attempt

Two men in dark clothes and balaclavas threw bottle suspected to contain petrol at the building in Fallow Court Avenue early this morning

(Credit – Met Police)

Police are appealing for witnesses after an attempted arson attack on a Finchley synagogue early this morning.

The Met says two suspects wearing dark clothing and balaclavas approached the synagogue in Fallow Court Avenue shortly after midnight.

They threw two bottles, suspected to contain petrol, and a brick at the building. Neither bottle ignited and there were no injuries and no damage reported.

The incident is being investigated by detectives from the Met’s North West Command Unit, with support from specialist detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London, with no arrests made so far.

The attempted attack follows a series of antisemitic incidents in the borough in recent months, including the arson attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green last month.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, said: “We are aware of the significant concern that this incident will cause in the community, particularly in the wake of the arson attack in Golders Green last month. We are working with the affected synagogue and continuing to meet with community leaders.

“I would like to reassure the community that we take incidents of this nature extremely seriously and detectives are working urgently to identify the suspects.

“If you have any CCTV, dash cam footage or information that could help officers please contact the police.

“Residents can expect to see a heightened police presence in the area over the coming days. We have brought in additional officers and would urge anyone with concerns to speak to them.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, providing the reference 1685/15APR or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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