Police are investigating a suspected arson attack at a memorial wall dedicated to Iranians killed during protests in January. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning in Golders Green, north London. Counter-terror police are probing the attempt to set fire to the wall, but the memorial itself was not damaged, and the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act.
The wall honors thousands of protesters who lost their lives during anti-regime protests in Iran in January. A spokesperson for the Persian Advice Bureau, present at the scene, told Metro: 'The world should know what is going on. Iranians are under threat now. The attack is a disrespect for the 40,000 that were massacred on the 8th and 9th of January by the Iranian regime. It is a disrespect on their lives that were given for freedom.'
Community Reaction
Haleh Blake, co-founder of the activist group United4Mahsa, informed Metro that the wall was initially used by the Jewish community for pictures of the October 7 hostages. The community then allowed the Iranian community to use it for photos of their loved ones. Blake stated: 'When they know someone has died, they print out a photo and take it to the wall. It is really significant and the community will be really emotional about it.'
Police Response
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in north west London, said: 'We recognize that this incident will heighten concerns in the Golders Green area, where residents have already faced a series of attacks. We are working closely with community organizations and leaders, and want to reassure them that our protective security operation continues. Our local officers are working closely with Counter Terror Policing to support their investigation.'
Williams added: 'Since last month's attack in Golders Green, we have stepped up our work to reassure communities. This includes armed police patrols as well as deployments of officers from Project Servator, who are specially trained to spot anyone who may be planning or preparing to commit criminal acts.'
