A 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a series of suspicious fires in North London, including one at a property connected to a high-profile public figure.
The suspect was detained in the early hours of Tuesday, 13 May, and is currently being held in police custody as detectives investigate links between three incidents in the NW5 and N7 postcodes.
Blaze at Residential Property Sparks Counter-Terror Involvement
The most serious of the incidents occurred just after 1.35am on Monday, 12 May, when police were alerted by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) to a fire at a residential property in NW5.
Damage was caused to the property’s entrance, but fortunately no injuries were reported,” said a spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police.
Due to the property’s historic connection to a high-profile individual, the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command (SO15) has taken the lead in the investigation. Authorities are continuing to assess whether there was any motive or threat linked to the former occupant.
Other Suspected Arson Attacks Under Investigation
Police are also probing two additional incidents which may be linked:
- Thursday, 8 May: A vehicle fire was reported in NW5.
- Sunday, 11 May: A fire at the entrance of a property in N7.
All three incidents are currently being treated as suspicious, with officers working to establish a definitive connection between them.
A forensic examination of the affected areas is underway, and CCTV footage is being reviewed by specialist teams.
Police Appeal
Investigators are appealing for witnesses and information, particularly from anyone who may have seen unusual activity in the areas around NW5 and N7 during the dates in question.
Anyone with footage or tips is urged to call 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
