Counter terror police lead investigation into arson attack on business in London

Counter terrorism police are leading an investigation into an arson attack on a business in Hendon, northwest London.

The Metropolitan Police has said the incident is not being treated as terrorism and officers are keeping an open mind about the motive.

The force said officers were called at 10.31pm on Friday. The London Fire Brigade also attended the scene.

"A man approached a row of shops with a plastic bag containing what was later found to be three bottles containing fluid," the Met said.

He placed the bag next to the building and lit the items in the bag. The bottles failed to fully ignite and the man fled the scene.

There were no injuries and only minor damage was caused to the shopfront, the Met said.

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The investigation is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, supported by officers from the North West Command Area.

No arrests have been made.

The incident occurred around two miles away from Golders Green, where last month four vehicles operated by volunteer-led Jewish ambulance service Hatzola were destroyed.

David Pinto-Duschinsky, MP for Hendon, told Sky News that Friday's attack will "undoubtedly add to the concerns" among the large Jewish community in the area.

He said: "In Hendon we are proudly the home of a large Jewish community.

"We've seen the attacks on Hatzola in Golders Green which is just a mile down the road.

"(Also) the attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue, which is just a few miles away, so obviously this adds to the concerns the community has.

"Today is Sabbath and as people come out of Sabbath they will be greeted with this news so it's something I'm working very hard on and obviously it's a source of concern."

Commander Helen Flanagan, of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: "At this stage last night's arson is not being linked to other incidents in the North West London area over the last week or last month's arson in Golders Green but Counter Terrorism officers are leading due to the similarities of each attack.

"I would ask that anyone with information or footage that could help our investigation gets in touch with police as soon as possible."

"We will be relentless in our pursuit of those responsible for this and other, similar, hateful acts against London's communities."

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, said that Friday's incident will only "add fears to the community".

"Since the incident in Golders Green last month we have spoken extensively to community leaders," he added.

"I understand and appreciate their concerns.

"Local officers are working closely with Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation."

He said since last month's attack patrols had been increased within the area.

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