Two Arrested Over Attempted Arson Attack on Synagogue in North London
A 47-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life after an attempted attack on a synagogue in Finchley, north London. The Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident as an antisemitic hate crime, highlighting the severity of the threat to the Jewish community.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests
The arrests occurred on Wednesday, with the woman detained at an address in Watford just after 4:45 PM, and the man arrested in the Watford area at 7:15 PM. Both suspects remain in police custody as inquiries continue. The investigation focuses on the attempted attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue located on Fallow Court Avenue.
According to officers, two individuals wearing dark clothing and balaclavas were seen approaching the synagogue just after midnight. They carried two bottles and a brick. The bottles, believed to contain petrol, were smashed against the building using the brick. Fortunately, neither bottle ignited, and the perpetrators fled the scene, resulting in no reported damage or injuries.
Community Response and Reassurance Efforts
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, emphasized the seriousness with which such attacks are treated. "I hope the swift action by officers today to identify and arrest two people provides some reassurance and demonstrates how seriously we take attacks of this nature," he stated. He acknowledged the significant concern within the Jewish community, especially following a recent arson attack on four ambulances in Golders Green, though there is no suggestion the incidents are linked.
Increased police patrols have been deployed in the Finchley area to bolster security. Williams urged anyone with concerns to speak directly with officers on the ground.
Statements from Community Leaders and Officials
Cantor Zoe Jacobs, senior clergy at the synagogue, expressed defiance in the face of the attack. "The Jewish community will not be deterred by these cowardly acts. Instead, we will continue to prioritise building bridges across the wider Barnet community," she affirmed.
Sarah Sackman, MP for Finchley and Golders Green, echoed this sentiment in a social media post, stating, "British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear – whether taking their children to nursery or attending synagogue. We do not want to live behind ever-higher walls."
London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed gratitude to the police for their "swift response" to what he described as an "appalling" incident. The synagogue itself released a statement highlighting the emotional and psychological impact on the community, while thanking neighbors, police, and politicians for their solidarity.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The road approaching the synagogue was cordoned off by police on Wednesday afternoon, with officers patrolling the area. Security personnel were stationed at the building's entrance, supported by a nearby police van.
Authorities are appealing for information from the public. Anyone with details related to the incident should contact the police using reference number 1685/15APR or reach out to Crimestoppers anonymously.
