Attempted Arson at North London Synagogue: Two Arrested
A significant development has emerged in the investigation into an attempted arson attack at a north London synagogue, with police confirming the arrest of a man and a woman. The incident, which saw individuals dressed in balaclavas attempting to use suspected petrol bombs against Finchley Reform Synagogue, is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning on Fallow Court Avenue in North Finchley. CCTV footage captured two suspects, clad in dark clothing and balaclavas, entering the synagogue grounds at approximately 12:09 am. They were observed placing two glass bottles near the synagogue's windows before throwing a brick at the building. One of the bottles, believed to contain petrol, was shattered by the brick. Thankfully, neither bottle was ignited, and no injuries were reported, with the building sustaining no damage before the suspects fled the scene.
The incident was reported to the police by a member of synagogue staff later that morning, around 8:30 am.
Following a swift investigation, police apprehended a 47-year-old woman at 4:47 pm on Wednesday and a 46-year-old man at 7:15 pm in the Watford area. Both were arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life and remain in police custody.
Context of Rising Tensions and Previous Attacks
This latest incident comes as a deeply concerning escalation, particularly given a similar, albeit separate, attack that occurred just weeks prior. On March 23rd, four Hatzola ambulances were firebombed outside a different synagogue in nearby Golders Green. While the Metropolitan Police have stated that the ambulance arson attack does not appear to be linked to the Finchley synagogue incident, the timing and nature of both events have understandably heightened anxieties within the Jewish community.
The earlier firebombing of the ambulances, operated by the volunteer-led Hatzola service, resulted in the explosion of gas canisters within the vehicles. Three individuals – Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and a 17-year-old boy – have since been charged with arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered in connection with that incident.
Community and Political Reactions
The attempted arson at Finchley Reform Synagogue has drawn strong condemnation from local representatives and community leaders. Sarah Sackman, the MP for Finchley and Golders Green, described the attack as "shocking" and emphasised the right of the Jewish community to live without fear.
"This morning, I became aware of an attempted arson attack at Finchley Reform Synagogue overnight. Thankfully, no one has been hurt. I have been at the synagogue, supporting local residents and community leaders," Ms. Sackman stated. "This shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue follows a series of alarming attacks on the Jewish community in Finchley and Golders Green. As your local MP, and as a member of the community, I refuse to allow this to become the 'new normal'. 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."
Ms. Sackman also expressed her gratitude to the Community Security Trust (CST) and the Metropolitan Police for their rapid and effective response, pledging to continue advocating for increased security and efforts to combat antisemitism at the highest levels of government.
Police Reassurance and Ongoing Investigations
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who heads policing in the area, acknowledged the arrests as a positive step towards reassurance for the community. "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 commented.
However, he also recognised the significant concern the Jewish community will feel following another incident so soon after the Golders Green attack. He reiterated that there is currently no suggestion of a link between the Finchley and Golders Green incidents. Increased police patrols in the Finchley area are continuing, and the police are urging anyone with concerns or information to approach officers.
The investigation is being led by detectives from the Met’s North West Area Command Unit, with crucial support from specialist detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London.
Synagogue's Resilience and Call for Unity
Cantor Zöe Jacobs, speaking on behalf of the senior clergy at Finchley Reform Synagogue, highlighted the synagogue's role as a vibrant and welcoming centre within the community. "FRS is a proud, progressive and welcoming space for all. We not only hold Jewish services and celebrations, but within our community we host a nursery, a homeless shelter, and are a safe place for refugees to gather," she explained.
She acknowledged the attempted attack as an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community but stressed that such cowardly acts will not deter them. "Instead, we will continue to prioritise building bridges across the wider Barnet community. At this time, and as always, our community is being incredibly well supported by the police, the government, CST and all of our key partners."
How to Help the Investigation
The police are appealing to the public for any information that could assist their investigation. Anyone with relevant details, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings is urged to contact the police, quoting reference number 1685/15APR. Alternatively, individuals can reach out to Crimestoppers anonymously.
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