Counter terror officers are spearheading the inquiry following an alleged “firebombing” incident at a synagogue last night. The event at Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow on Saturday night resulted in minor smoke damage to an interior room, with no injuries or significant structural harm, according to the Community Security Trust (CST).
Situated near a school and children’s playground, the building drew police attention, leading to the inspection of a black SUV nearby on Sunday morning. A substantial cordon has been established at the scene, with a forensics officer, fire investigation dogs, and multiple plainclothes officers actively engaged. The presence of one marked and five unmarked police cars outside the place of worship was noted.
This incident follows a series of arson or attempted arson attacks on Jewish properties in north-west London over the past month. Metropolitan Police officers conducting deterrence and reassurance patrols in response to recent incidents observed damage to a synagogue window around midnight last night.
“On further examination, they discovered smoke inside a room and evidence indicating that a bottle containing an accelerant had been thrown through the window,” the police force stated.
A representative from the CST, an organization dedicated to combating antisemitism and safeguarding Jewish communities in the UK, commented on the situation. They acknowledged another attempted arson aimed at a synagogue in north London, following recent incidents targeting the Jewish community in Finchley, Golders Green, and Hendon. Although minor smoke damage occurred in this instance, no injuries or significant structural harm were reported.
Expressing gratitude to the swift response of the Met Police and London Fire Brigade, the CST spokesperson emphasized the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities to the authorities.
A spokesperson from the Campaign Against Antisemitism voiced concern over the increasing frequency of arson attacks on the Jewish community, citing the recent firebombing at a synagogue in Kenton as part of a troubling trend.
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