Police investigate arson at former synagogue in east London
Counter-terrorism police are investigating an arson attack at a former synagogue in Tower Hamlets, east London.
The Metropolitan Police said the fire happened on Tuesday morning.
Jewish security charity Shomrim said fire crews were called to the building on Nelson Street in Whitechapel, east London, in the early hours.
The Met said there was minor damage to a number of doors and locks at the front of the building.
Police said security cameras showed the fire was started deliberately minutes earlier.
No injuries were reported.
The former synagogue in Whitechapel was due to be sold at auction earlier this year after a Muslim group made a separate bid to buy the building and turn it into a mosque and community centre.
The arson is the latest in a series of incidents at locations linked to London’s Jewish community since the end of March.
There was also a double stabbing in Golders Green, which is being treated as an act of terrorism.
Most of the attacks were claimed by a group called Hayi, which is suspected to be backed by Iran in an attempt to sow division in Britain.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will host a meeting of senior public figures on Tuesday to advance the UK’s response to antisemitism.
Detective Superintendent Brittany Clarke said: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously and will be working closely with our colleagues from the Counter Terrorism Police to support the investigation.
“The targeted building has not been in operation as a synagogue for several years but this will be of little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney and beyond, which was my first thought this morning.
“Local residents can expect an increased police presence in the area as investigations into this incident continue.”
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of London Counter Terrorism Police, which is leading the investigation, said: “This incident follows a series of arson and attempted arson targeting Jewish Londoners in the north-west of the city and we will consider possible links as the investigation continues.
“Detectives are currently working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible and I would appeal to anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police.
“Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to a range of incidents. We provide protective security advice and support to a range of organisations, community venues and businesses.
“With the threat level raised to severe, everyone can do their part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you see or hear something that doesn’t look or feel right, please let us know. Your information could help us save lives.”
