2 hours ago
4
BBC/Harry Low
Counter-terrorism police are leading an investigation into an arson attack on a business in Hendon, north-west London.
The Met Police said a man was seen on Friday night approaching a row of shops with a plastic bag containing what was later found to be three bottles containing fluid.
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. Minor damage was caused to the shopfront and no injuries were reported. Fire crews also attended.
It is not being treated as a terrorist incident, and is not currently being linked to other incidents in the area. No arrests have been made.
Counter terrorism are also investigating attempted arson attacks on a Persian language media organisation and a synagogue in Finchley, as well as ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity set alight in Golders Green.
Commander Helen Flanagan 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.
"We will be relentless in our pursuit of those responsible for this and other, similar, hateful acts against London's communities."
Det Ch Supt Luke Williams said he understood the concerns of local residents, and added that police presence in the area had been increased, including armed patrols and officers trained to identify suspicious behaviour.
