Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has arrested two more suspects in a chilling arson conspiracy targeting a venue linked to the Jewish community. The latest arrests bring the total to nine in just three days, as police ramp up their investigation into coordinated attacks.
Latest Arrests in Watford
- A 19-year-old man and a 26-year-old man were arrested in Watford on Tuesday, 21 April.
- Both suspects remain in custody amid tight security.
These new arrests follow seven others, all released on strict bail conditions but still under investigation. They include:
- Three men aged 24, 25, and 26, arrested in Harpenden on 19 April late evening.
- A 25-year-old man arrested in Stevenage on 20 April.
- A 26-year-old man and two women, aged 50 and 59, arrested near Birmingham on 20 April.
CTP Vows No Let-Up in Crackdown
“Our investigations continue at pace. We’re determined to identify, arrest and charge everyone involved in these arson attacks,” said Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Co-ordinator of Counter Terrorism Policing. “We’ve secured our first conviction and seven others have been charged. My message is clear: it’s not worth the risk to get involved in this criminal activity.” CTP officers work closely with the Met Police, stepping up patrols and security at Jewish venues, businesses, and community centres across north west London. Expect to see an increased uniformed and plain-clothed police presence, with armed response units and specialist interceptors patrolling roads and key locations to deter further attacks.
Kensington Gardens Probe and Wider Crackdown
A separate investigation is underway following a suspicious incident in Kensington Gardens. A 39-year-old man was arrested on 21 April in Ealing under anti-terror laws and remains in custody with detention extended until 28 April. The arrest followed the discovery of jars containing non-hazardous substances in the park on 17 April. This ties into a broader string of investigations sparked by the attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green on 23 March. So far, CTP officers have detained 25 people related to these offences. Eight face arson charges, and one has already been convicted. The message from authorities is clear: the crackdown on hate-fuelled violence is relentless, and anyone plotting to harm communities will be caught.
