Three Arrested After Hatzola Ambulance Arson in Golders Green

Three more suspects have been arrested in connection with an alleged arson attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green, north-west London, the Metropolitan Police confirmed on Wednesday.

According to police, a 20-year-old man, a 19-year-old man, and a 17-year-old boy were detained during early morning operations at separate addresses in East London. All three have been taken into custody on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. Police said searches of the properties where the arrests took place are ongoing.

The investigation stems from an incident on 23 March, when four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a volunteer organization serving the Jewish community, were set ablaze. Authorities reported that the fire caused stored gas canisters inside the vehicles to explode. Firefighters responded to the scene on Highfield Road, with images showing extensive damage to the emergency vehicles.

Of the three detained, police identified the 20-year-old and 19-year-old as British nationals, while the 17-year-old holds dual British and Pakistani nationality. Counterterrorism officers are leading the investigation, though authorities have emphasized that the incident is not currently being treated as terrorism. Last week, Metropolitan Police classified the attack as an antisemitic hate crime.

Two other men, aged 45 and 47, were previously arrested in connection with the case and have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

With community concerns heightened as the Passover festival begins, police announced the deployment of an additional 264 officers and specialist units as part of an ongoing, enhanced security plan in Golders Green and other vulnerable areas across London.

The three recently arrested suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues, with police maintaining a high-visibility presence in support of the local Jewish community.