Fourth suspect arrested over Jewish charity ambulance arson attack

Fourth Suspect Arrested Over Jewish Charity Ambulance Arson Attack

In a recent development, authorities have detained a fourth individual linked to the assault on Jewish charity ambulances in north London. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed the arrest occurred on Saturday morning at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where a man was escorted out by police. Prosecutors indicated that four individuals were involved in the incident, with three appearing in court that day and later granted custody. These suspects include two British men—Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19—and a 17-year-old boy with dual British-Pakistani nationality.

Charges against the three include arson with intent to damage property and being reckless as to whether life would be endangered. The ambulances belonging to Hatzola were torched in the car park of a Golders Green synagogue on 23 March. Damage estimates reached nearly £1m, and the court emphasized the attack was a “premeditated and targeted strike against the Jewish community.” During their appearance, the suspects wore grey tracksuits and only confirmed their names and addresses, with several family members in attendance.

“Since this appalling attack last week, we have been working continuously to investigate and identify those responsible,” said Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London.

Iqbal and Khan are both from Leyton, while the unnamed 17-year-old hails from Walthamstow. They were apprehended on Wednesday at three separate east London locations. Earlier this week, two men aged 45 and 47 were also arrested in connection with the case and released on bail until late April. Prosecutors are currently assessing whether an Iranian-backed group, which claimed responsibility, was involved.

“We know that local community concerns continue to remain high—particularly for our Jewish communities during the Passover festival period,” stated Det Ch Sup Luke Williams, overseeing North West London policing. “The presence of additional officers is precautionary and not in response to any specific threat.”

Following the attack, police patrols have been increased in areas with significant Jewish populations. The Metropolitan Police clarified that the incident “has not been declared as terrorism” at this stage, though counter-terror units are leading the inquiry. The three charged suspects will next appear at the Old Bailey on 24 April.