Headline: Counter-Terror Police Lead Probe into North London Arson Attacks

Why this matters:A pattern of arson attempts targeting community and religious sites has heightened safety concerns in parts of north-west London.

Date: 18 April 2026

Tags: Crime, London, Policing, Security

Summary:

• Counter-terrorism officers are investigating an arson attempt at a business in Hendon, north-west London.

• A man was seen placing a plastic bag with three bottles of fluid near a row of shops before fleeing.

• The bottles did not fully ignite, causing only minor damage; no injuries were reported.

• Fire crews attended the scene shortly after the incident.

• Police say it is not currently being treated as a terrorist act.

• No arrests have been made at this stage.

• Similar attempted arsons targeted a Persian-language media outlet and a synagogue in Finchley.

• Ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity were previously set alight in Golders Green.

• Counter-terror police are leading the investigation due to similarities between the attacks.

• Police presence, including armed patrols, has been increased in affected areas.

What’s next:Police continue to investigate potential links between incidents and are appealing for information to identify those responsible.