North London Man Becomes Third Charged in Arson Attacks Linked to Keir Starmer
Petro Pochynok Named as Latest Suspect
Met Police have charged 34-year-old Petro Pochynok with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. He is the third person hit with charges and the second Ukrainian national involved. Pochynok is due in court today, Wednesday 21 May.
Police say he conspired with Roman Lavrynovych and Stanislav Carpiuc – plus others still at large – to torch properties linked to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. The alleged plot ran from 17 April to 13 May 2025, spanning three separate fires in north London.
Blaze Timeline: Three Attacks in Two Weeks
- 8 May: Vehicle set ablaze in NW5
- 11 May: Fire at property entrance in N7
- 12 May: Early-hours home fire in NW5
All targets have links to Sir Keir Starmer, prompting counter-terrorism units to lead the probe.
Arrests and Court Action So Far
- Roman Lavrynovych, 21, from Sydenham, also Ukrainian, faces three counts of arson with intent to endanger life. He was remanded after his court hearing on 16 May.
- Stanislav Carpiuc, 26, Romanian national from Romford, charged with conspiracy to commit arson. Remanded in custody after 20 May appearance.
Both are set to face the Old Bailey on 6 June. Pochynok was arrested near Chelsea on 19 May.
Counter-Terrorism Steps Up as Investigation Widens
Given the high-profile target and risk to life, the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command is leading the investigation. Authorities are probing possible wider and international links.
“We are treating these attacks with the utmost seriousness. The charges reflect the gravity of the offences, and investigations remain ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.
Security Concerns Ignite Political Debate
The deliberate targeting of properties linked to the Labour leader has sparked fresh worries about political violence and security for public figures. Thankfully, no one was hurt in the fires, but government sites are tightening security as the probe continues.
Sir Keir Starmer’s office remains silent, citing the ongoing legal process.
