Counter-terrorism police in London are investigating an early morning fire at a former synagogue as suspected arson. The incident occurred around 5:15 am on Nelson Street in Tower Hamlets, causing minor damage to the building's exterior gates and lock. According to multiple reports, CCTV footage indicates the fire was intentionally set.
Key Takeaways
Counter-terrorism police in London are investigating a fire at a former synagogue as potential arson. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning on Nelson Street in Tower Hamlets, causing minor damage to the building's exterior. Authorities are treating it as a hate crime and considering links to recent attacks on Jewish sites.
- Fire at former East London Central Synagogue investigated as arson
- Minor damage reported; no injuries sustained
- Police examining potential links to other anti-Semitic incidents
- Building was set to be converted into a mosque and community center
The former East London Central Synagogue has been disused since 2020 and was scheduled for auction earlier this year. A Muslim group had expressed interest in converting it into a mosque and community center. Police are working closely with counter-terrorism units to determine if the attack is linked to other recent arson incidents targeting Jewish sites.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke emphasized that while the building hasn't operated as a synagogue for years, the incident would understandably concern London's Jewish community. Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London noted detectives are gathering evidence and considering potential connections to other attacks in northwest London.
The fire comes amid heightened tensions following several arson attacks on Jewish sites since March. An Iran-linked group, Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI), has claimed responsibility for some of these incidents. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
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