Three More Arrests After Golders Green Ambulance Attack

The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest of three additional individuals in connection with the arson incidents targeting ambulances in north London. Four Hatzola vehicles were damaged in the early hours of 23 March at a synagogue site in Golders Green. The suspects, including two British men aged 20 and 19, and a British-Pakistani dual national, 17, are currently in custody. They were detained on suspicion of planning arson attacks across three locations in east London earlier this week.

Previously, two British men, aged 47 and 45, were arrested for alleged arson with intent to endanger lives but have since been released on bail. Cdr Helen Flanagan, leading Counter Terrorism Policing in London, emphasized the ongoing efforts to trace those responsible for the “appalling attacks.” She noted that the Jewish community’s concerns remain elevated, though the arrests demonstrate the police’s commitment to justice.

“We are working continuously to identify those behind the attacks and ensure our communities feel safe,” Flanagan stated.

The force is conducting searches at the sites of the recent arrests. Although the case is not yet labeled as a terrorism event, counter-terror detectives are spearheading the investigation. Surveillance footage captured three men fleeing the scene after igniting the ambulances. Explosions from oxygen canisters inside the vehicles shattered windows of nearby buildings, including the synagogue, though no injuries were reported.

Hatzola, a Jewish-led nonprofit, offers free emergency medical services and transport to hospitals through volunteer medics. Det Ch Supt Luke Williams, overseeing policing in north-west London, addressed the community ahead of Passover. “We’ve implemented an expanded security strategy targeting vulnerable areas across London,” he said. The plan includes visible armed patrols to deter potential threats.

“These measures are designed to protect our communities and signal our readiness to respond to any danger,” Williams added.