Manhunt after attempted arson attack on synagogue

Manhunt After Attempted Arson Attack on Synagogue

A synagogue in north London is under investigation following an attempted arson incident. Two individuals are now being searched for after they hurled two bottles believed to hold petrol and a brick at the Finchley Reform Synagogue around 1:00 AM BST. Police have confirmed the attack is classified as an antisemitic hate crime. The Met reported that the suspects, wearing balaclavas, targeted the building during the early hours.

Earlier this month, four ambulances linked to a Jewish community charity were set on fire in another arson attack, prompting counter-terrorism units to assist in both cases. The incident has raised concerns about targeted intimidation within the British Jewish community, according to Cantor Zoë Jacobs of the Finchley Reform Synagogue. “This is clearly an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community,” she stated. “We will continue to prioritise building bridges across the wider Barnet community and will not be deterred by these cowardly acts.”

“British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear,” said Sarah Sackman, Labour MP for Finchley and Golders Green. “Whether taking their children to nursery or attending synagogue, this shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue follows a series of alarming attacks in our area. We refuse to allow this to become the new normal.”

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan expressed gratitude for the police response, noting that no one was injured in the incident. “The Met are urging anyone with information to come forward,” he added. The Community Security Trust (CST) highlighted its support for the affected location and collaboration with law enforcement. Jewish Leadership Council leaders called the event “horrifying,” while the Holocaust Educational Trust linked it to “a broader pattern of rising antisemitism.”

Det Ch Supt Luke Williams assured the community that the Met is addressing the significant concern the attack has caused, especially after the Golders Green incident. “We are working closely with the synagogue and community leaders,” he said. “Detectives are actively pursuing the suspects, and we are seeking CCTV, dash cam footage, or any other information that could aid in the investigation.”

Listen to BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Submit story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.