A 64-year-old man has been arrested following a suspicious fire at the Thistle %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_0%% england/%%UKNIP_ANCHOR_1%%/barbican/”>barbican/”>Barbican Hotel in %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_2%%, home to asylum seekers. Police suspect arson with intent to endanger life and possession of a bladed article.
Fire Quickly Doused, No Injuries Reported
The blaze broke out around 10:50pm on Wednesday, 24 September, in the hotel's grounds on %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_3%% Road. Staff acted swiftly to put out the fire before police arrived. Thankfully, no one was hurt in the incident.
Investigation Underway as Hate Crime
Commander Hayley Sewart praised her team's rapid arrest and confirmed the probe is ongoing. "We understand the concern in the local community and are investigating this as a hate crime," she said.
Community Leaders Condemn Attack
%%UKNIP_ANCHOR_4%% Council leader Una O'Halloran and MP Dame Emily Thornberry slammed the incident as a "despicable and cowardly attack."
"Islington is a proud %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_5%%beacon of tolerance and diversity that welcomes people from all %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_6%%over the world. Anyone who seeks to incite hatred or violence has %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_7%%no place in Islington," they declared.
Authorities continue hunting for further suspects and urged the community to stay vigilant. The investigation remains a top priority for the Met Police. %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_8%%
