Counter-Terrorism Police Make Two Additional Arrests in Connection with Alleged Jewish Site Arson Conspiracy

Authorities have apprehended two more suspects as part of an ongoing investigation into a purported scheme to set fires at a Jewish community location, bringing the total number of arrests to nine over a three-day period.

The Metropolitan Police Counter-Terrorism Command detained a 19-year-old and a 26-year-old in Watford on Tuesday, both of whom remain in custody pending further inquiries. Among the nine individuals arrested since the investigation intensified, seven have been released under stringent bail conditions, according to police statements.

Widening Investigation

Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, national lead for Counter Terrorism Policing, stated:

"We are continuing to identify and arrest suspects who we believe were involved, or planning, the recent arson attacks in north-west London."

Earlier detentions included three men aged 24, 25, and 26, arrested in Harpenden, Hertfordshire on Sunday evening. A 25-year-old suspect was taken into custody in Stevenage on Monday, followed by the arrest of a 26-year-old man and two women aged 50 and 59 near Birmingham, also on Monday.

Pattern of Incidents

The arrests follow a series of arson incidents across London since late March targeting sites within the Jewish community. Victims have included:

• Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green
• Two synagogues
• A former Jewish charitable organization

Additionally, a drone was flown near the Israeli embassy in a separate incident. Police are also investigating an occurrence in Kensington Gardens on April 17, when jars containing a non-hazardous substance were discovered.

Detention Extensions

A 39-year-old man arrested on Tuesday under the Terrorism Act remains in police custody. Officers have secured extended detention authorization permitting his continued custody until Tuesday, April 28.

Counter-terrorism operations have resulted in a combined total of 25 arrests relating to these incidents.

Security Measures

Law enforcement has announced increased patrols—both uniformed and plainclothes officers—throughout north-west London, with particular focus on Jewish places of worship, commercial establishments, and other vital community facilities designed to prevent further offenses and reassure residents.

Evans concluded:

"My message to anyone even considering getting involved in this type of activity is this: the stakes are high and it is absolutely not worth the risk."