Iran-linked group claims responsibility for north London arson attacks
Iran-linked group claims responsibility for north London arson attacks
Authorities probe three arson attempts in north London after a claim of responsibility by an Islamist group with possible Iran links; arrests have been made and counter-terrorism detectives lead the investigation.
Authorities are investigating three arson attempts in north London after a claim of responsibility by a group with possible Iran links. The unverified claim, posted on social media by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya - The Islamic Movement of the People of the Right Hand - coincides with police posts about several incidents, and the Met's counter-terrorism unit is leading the investigation. Officials said none of the attacks has been classified as terrorism at this stage.
One incident targeted the Volant Media building in Park Royal, a Persian-language news organisation. An ignited container was thrown toward the offices around 20:30 BST, but the fire was contained in a car park and caused no injuries. Nearby buildings were evacuated as a precaution before reopening.
Other incidents included two separate attacks on a synagogue in Finchley and an assault on four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity called Hatzola. A car pursuit followed the Park Royal incident, ending in a crash on Ballards Lane in Finchley. A 16-year-old boy and two men, aged 19 and 21, were arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life and remain in custody.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, the national counter-terrorism coordinator, said authorities are aware of the group and related incidents across Europe. She stressed that there is no confirmed wider risk to the public and that vigilance remains essential. Police urged anyone persuaded or paid to act on behalf of foreign organisations to rethink their involvement.
The investigation continues as detectives work to verify the group’s claim and determine whether the incidents are connected. The police have encouraged the public to report anything unusual and emphasised that the current assessment does not indicate a coordinated terrorist attack.
