Counter terror police probe suspected arson attack at former East London synagogue

Counter-terrorism police are investigating a suspected arson attack at a former synagogue.

Jewish security charity Shomrim said that fire crews were called out to the building in Nelson Street, Whitechapel, east London, in the early hours of Tuesday.

The incident is being investigated alongside a number of apparent attacks on Jewish sites in London since late March.

The Metropolitan Police said officers were called just before 5.15am by the London Fire Brigade, and that minor damage had been caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building.

CCTV showed that the fire had been started deliberately minutes before, the force said.

Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke said: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously and we will be working closely with colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation.

“The building targeted has not been operational as a synagogue for some years but that will be of little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney and beyond, who are first in my thoughts this morning.

“Local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while inquiries into this incident continue.”

The site in Nelson street, Whitechapel, formerly the East London Central Synagogue, was put up for sale earlier this year. There have been a spate of attempting firebombings targeting Jewish infrastructure in London over the last six weeks, including four Hatzola ambulances, two other synagogues and the former site of a Jewish charity.

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of CTP London, which is leading the investigation, said: “This incident follows on from a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north west of the city and we will be considering any potential links as their investigation gets underway.

“Detectives are already working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible and I would urge anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police.

“Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to the various incidents. We’re providing protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses.

“With the threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.”

Anyone with information about this morning’s arson is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY.

The North and East London branch of Shomrim, the Jewish community security group, said that they “have increased security patrols across the community and urge the public to report any suspicious activity.”