London Jewish Attacks: Man Arrested in Devon

A 37-year-old man was arrested in Devon on Sunday, linked to recent attacks on London's Jewish community. This is a major step in the investigation.
By Newsroom | Crime, London |

A 37-year-old man has been apprehended by Metropolitan Police counter-terrorism officers on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. The arrest, made on Sunday at a location near Barnstaple, Devon, is linked to a series of attacks targeting the Jewish community in London. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing investigation into incidents that have fueled anxiety within the community. The suspect is currently being questioned at a London police station.

Since a firebombing of Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green on March 23, the Metropolitan Police have detained a total of 26 individuals in connection with these events. The string of attacks, which began in late March, has included arson attempts on synagogues and communal properties, as well as incidents involving the deployment of accelerants and drones.

The probe into these attacks is reportedly examining the potential involvement of Iranian proxies, a line of inquiry underscored by concerns from the prime minister regarding state-sponsored destabilisation efforts. The prime minister recently met with Jewish community leaders, including Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, to discuss the heightened anxieties and reiterate a commitment to religious freedom.

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Chronology of Incidents Under Investigation:

  • March 23: Four ambulances belonging to the Jewish charity Hatzola were destroyed in an arson attack in Golders Green.

  • April 15: An attempted arson occurred at Finchley Reform Synagogue. On the same day, an ignited container was thrown at the offices of Volant Media, a Persian news organisation, in north-west London.

  • April 18: Bins were set alight outside a communal block in Barnet.

  • April 19: A bottle containing an accelerant was hurled through the window of Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow.

In a separate but related legal proceeding, a 17-year-old boy admitted guilt at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to arson not endangering life, stemming from the attack on Kenton United Synagogue. This plea highlights the diverse nature of the individuals apprehended in connection with the broader series of incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was arrested and where in connection with the London Jewish community attacks?
Counter-terrorism police arrested a 37-year-old man on Sunday near Barnstaple, Devon. He is suspected of preparing terrorist acts linked to attacks on the Jewish community in London.
Q: What kind of attacks are being investigated?
The investigation covers incidents like the firebombing of Hatzola ambulances on March 23, attempted arson at synagogues, and fires set to bins. Accelerants and drones have also been involved.
Q: How many people have been detained so far?
Since the firebombing on March 23, Metropolitan Police have detained a total of 26 individuals in connection with these events.
Q: What is the latest legal development in the investigation?
A 17-year-old boy pleaded guilty on Tuesday to arson not endangering life related to an attack on Kenton United Synagogue.
Q: What is the prime minister's stance on these attacks?
The prime minister recently met with Jewish community leaders to discuss anxieties and reinforce a commitment to religious freedom. The probe is examining potential involvement of Iranian proxies.