Police arrest third man in relation to synagogue arson attack

A third person has been arrested in connection with an attempted arson attack in Finchley, counter-terrorism police have announced.

The 19-year-old man was arrested at an address in Portsmouth today on suspicion of attempted arson and has been taken into custody.

His arrest marks the third since the attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Fallow Court Avenue on April 15.

No damage was caused during the attack and no injuries were reported.

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A 38-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man were arrested in Watford on suspicion of arson endangering life on the same day as the attack, and have been bailed until July.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terror Police London, said: “We are continuing to make progress in all our ongoing investigations linked to various recent arson attacks across London.

“Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to the incidents.

“We’re providing protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses.

“With the threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe.

“If you have concerns about someone behaving suspiciously, please report it to us.

“Your information could help us save lives.”

At the time of the attack, London Mayor Sadiq Khan took to social media to praise the Metropolitan Police’s response.

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He said on X: “I’m grateful to the Met Police for their swift response to the appalling attempted arson attack at Finchley Reform Synagogue overnight.

“The incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, and there is an increased police presence in place in the local area.

“While thankfully no one was injured, the Met are urging anyone with information to come forward.”

Following the attack on Hatzola Ambulances in Golders Green in March, and a string of attacks on Jewish communities, the Met Police have arrested 30 people, of which, eight have been charged with an offence.

A 17-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to arson in regard to the Kenton synagogue incident.

Police have urged anyone with information to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Prosecutors have also been told to "fast-track" hate crime trials following the "troubling rise" in antisemitic attacks.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Stephen Parkinson has issued guidance to prosecutors which says "any supporting evidence can be obtained subsequently" once the evidential threshold for a charge is met.

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