Three charged over Jewish charity ambulance fires

Three charged in Jewish charity ambulance fires

Four ambulances linked to a Jewish volunteer group were targeted in a series of fires in north London, prompting charges against three individuals. The vehicles, operated by Hatzola, were ignited in the parking area of a synagogue in Golders Green on 23 March. The accused include Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and a 17-year-old boy with British-Pakistani heritage. All three face allegations of arson and endangering lives through reckless behavior.

Metropolitan Police confirmed that the suspects were arrested at three separate locations in east London as part of an ongoing inquiry. Iqbal and Khan, both from Leyton, along with the unnamed minor from Walthamstow, are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday. Counter-terror units are leading the probe, though the Met clarified that the incident “has not been declared as terrorism” at this stage.

“The criminal proceedings against these defendants are active, and they are entitled to a fair trial,” said Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s special crime and counter-terrorism division.

Earlier in the week, two men aged 45 and 47 were detained but released on bail until late April. Cdr Helen Flanagan, leading Counter Terrorism Policing in London, noted the team’s relentless efforts since the attack. “Local community support has been incredible,” she added, highlighting the unity shown in response to the incident.

Police have increased patrols in Jewish-populated areas following the event. Det Ch Sup Luke Williams, overseeing North West London policing, emphasized that the additional officers are “precautionary measures, not a reaction to any specific threat.” He also mentioned heightened concerns during the Passover festival period, underscoring the ongoing vigilance in the region.