Man Arrested Over Jewish Ambulance Arson Released on Bail
A 19-year-old man arrested in connection with an arson attack on ambulances owned by a Jewish charity in north London last month has been released on bail, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The individual was apprehended on 4 April after being identified by officers at Westminster Magistrates' Court, where he was present for a hearing involving three other suspects. He has been granted bail with a court date scheduled for May.
Additionally, two men aged 45 and 47, who were detained shortly after the arson incident, have been released without further action, the Metropolitan Police stated on Monday.
Charges and Suspects
Three suspects—Hamza Iqbal, 20; Rehan Khan, 19; and a 17-year-old boy—were charged on 3 April with arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.
The incident involved four ambulances from Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service, which were set ablaze in the early hours of 23 March near a synagogue in Golders Green.
The fire caused explosions from cylinders on the vehicles, resulting in shattered windows of nearby buildings. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
CCTV footage from the scene captured three men fleeing after the ambulances were ignited.
Iqbal and Khan are British nationals from Leyton, while the 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, holds dual British and Pakistani nationality and is from Walthamstow.
Investigation and Court Proceedings
During a hearing earlier this month, prosecutors indicated there was strong evidence suggesting the attack was a "premeditated and targeted attack against the Jewish community."
They also noted that investigators were exploring whether an Iranian-backed group that claimed responsibility for the attack was involved.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation; however, it is not currently being treated as a terrorism case.
The three charged suspects were remanded into custody pending a further court hearing.
Community Response and Official Statements
Following the attack, police increased patrols in areas with significant Jewish populations.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the incident as a
"deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack"
Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, previously remarked on the community's reaction, stating the support since the attack had been
"incredible"
