An arson attack on Jewish charity-owned ambulances in north London is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Four Hatzola ambulances were set ablaze in Golders Green, causing several explosions due to gas canisters onboard the vehicles. The Metropolitan Police has confirmed that no arrests have been made, but CCTV footage is being investigated.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday, with CCTV footage released showing three people in hoods pouring accelerant on the vehicles before setting them on fire and fleeing.
Police Response
Det Ch Supt Luke Williams stated that the attack had not been declared a terror incident "at this stage". The Metropolitan Police has created an online portal for members of the public to share any video footage they have before, during, or after the incident.
Commander Helen Flanagan said: "We've already gathered a large amount of CCTV footage from the local area and taken a number of statements from witnesses. But we know local people may also have footage or information that could be relevant, so we would urge anyone who may have information that could help with our investigation to get in touch."
Official Statements
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told the House of Commons: "There have as yet been no arrests, but the perpetrators must be in no doubt we will pursue them and make them face the consequences of this wicked crime."
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the government will fund the replacement of the four destroyed Hatzola ambulances. Health Secretary Wes Streeting promised that the London Ambulance Service would be providing additional support to ensure that "we don't miss a beat" responding to emergency callouts.
Investigation Underway
An Iran-aligned group, Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya, made an unsubstantiated claim of responsibility on its Telegram channel. The Met Police said: "Detectives are also aware of an online claim from a group taking responsibility for the attack and enquiries are ongoing to establish the authenticity and accuracy of this claim."
The London Fire Brigade reported that crews were sent to Highfield Road at around 01:40 GMT, and the fires were brought under control less than two hours later. No injuries have been reported, but around 30 people were taken to a local shelter.
