A London court is currently hearing allegations that three men were recruited and paid by a mysterious figure known only as "El Money" to carry out a series of arson attacks targeting properties connected to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The men, identified as Ukrainian nationals Roman Lavrynovych, 22, and Petro Pochynok, 35, along with Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, stand accused of involvement in fires that occurred in May 2025.
Prosecutors assert that the timing and nature of three separate fires – two involving houses and one a car – all linked to Starmer, point to a coordinated effort rather than mere coincidence. Prosecutors highlighted that the fires, occurring within a five-day span in the same general area, were all connected to the same individual, indicating a pattern beyond chance. The prosecution has indicated that the jury's focus should remain on whether the alleged acts took place and the involvement of the accused, rather than delving into the motivations of "El Money" or the defendants' specific awareness of the property's connection to the Prime Minister.
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Key Allegations and Accusations
The trial, which commenced on Wednesday, details incidents including a fire at the entrance of Sir Keir's former home in Kentish Town, which was at the time being rented out. Another fire reportedly targeted a house converted into flats in Islington, and a car previously owned by Starmer was also set ablaze.
Lavrynovych faces multiple counts of arson with intent to endanger life or being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.
Pochynok and Carpiuc are also charged with conspiracy to commit arson.
Prosecutors have presented evidence of over 320 messages exchanged between Lavrynovych and "El Money" dating back to September 2024, suggesting a sustained connection and recruitment process. The court heard that the prosecution does not need to establish the specific amount of money offered or whether the defendants were aware of the prime minister's connection to the targeted properties as part of their motivation.
Defense Stance and Court Proceedings
The defendants have reportedly denied the charges against them. While the prosecution has focused on the alleged actions, the defense may potentially raise arguments related to coercion or threats of violence. The trial is expected to continue for the remainder of May.
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Background and Context
The series of alleged arson attacks took place in north London during early May of 2025. Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, became Prime Minister prior to moving into Downing Street. The location of the Kentish Town property was significant, being where Starmer resided before his premiership and where his sister-in-law was reportedly living at the time of one incident. The investigation has been led by prosecutor Duncan Atkinson KC, with the proceedings taking place at London's Old Bailey court before Mr. Justice Garnham.
