Fourth Suspect Arrested in Connection with Ambulance Arson
A fourth suspect has been apprehended regarding the arson attack on ambulances owned by a Jewish charity in north London last week, according to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
The prosecution informed Westminster Magistrates' Court that the individual was arrested on Saturday morning at the court. Police were seen escorting a man from the building. It was stated in court that four suspects were involved in the attack.
Details of Charged Suspects
Three individuals charged in relation to the incident appeared at the court this morning and have since been remanded in custody.
The suspects include two British men, Hamza Iqbal, aged 20, and Rehan Khan, aged 19, along with a 17-year-old boy who holds dual British-Pakistani nationality.
All three have been charged with arson with intent to damage property and recklessness as to whether life would be endangered.
Incident Overview and Evidence
The Hatzola ambulances were set on fire in the car park of a synagogue located in Golders Green during the early hours of 23 March. The court was informed that the damage caused is estimated at nearly £1 million.
Evidence presented in court indicated the attack was a "premeditated and targeted attack against the Jewish community."
Court Appearance and Background of Suspects
During the court session, the three suspects wore grey tracksuits and only spoke to confirm their names and addresses. Several family members were present in the courtroom.
Hamza Iqbal and Rehan Khan are both residents of Leyton, while the 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is from Walthamstow.
All three were arrested on Wednesday at separate properties in east London.
Additional Arrests and Investigation Status
Earlier last week, two men aged 45 and 47 were arrested in connection with the case and subsequently released on bail until late April.
Prosecutors have indicated that investigations are ongoing to determine if an Iranian-backed group, which claimed responsibility for the attack, was involved.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation; however, the Metropolitan Police stated on Friday that the incident "has not been declared as terrorism" at this stage.
Police Statements and Community Response
Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: "Since this appalling attack last week, we have been working continuously to investigate and identify those responsible."
She also noted the support from the local community since the attack had been "incredible."
Following the attack, police patrols have increased in areas with significant Jewish populations.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, responsible for North West London policing, stated: "We know that local community concerns continue to remain high – particularly for our Jewish communities in the Passover festival period."
He emphasized that the presence of additional officers were "precautionary measures and not in response to any specific threat."
Next Court Appearance
The three charged individuals are scheduled to appear next at the Old Bailey on 24 April.
