Two suspects are being sought following an attempted arson incident at a synagogue in north London. The Metropolitan Police is treating the event as a hate crime after two individuals, dressed in dark attire and wearing balaclavas, were spotted approaching Finchley Reform Synagogue just after midnight on Wednesday.
According to the police, the suspects threw two bottles believed to contain petrol at the building, but neither bottle ignited. Additionally, a brick was hurled at the synagogue, causing no damage or injuries.
Detectives from the Met’s North West Command Unit, with assistance from Counter Terrorism Policing London, are investigating the case. No arrests have been made yet.
Authorities are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, overseeing policing in the area, expressed understanding of the community’s concerns, especially following a previous arson attack in Golders Green. He emphasized the seriousness of such incidents and urged anyone with relevant footage or information to contact the police.
Residents can expect increased police presence in the vicinity in the following days, with additional officers deployed to address any worries within the community.
The police statement highlighted the details of the incident, specifying that it is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime. The suspects, described as wearing dark clothing and balaclavas, threw two bottles and a brick at the synagogue in the early hours of the morning. No damage occurred, and there were no injuries reported.
Anyone with information relevant to the case is encouraged to reach out to the authorities either by dialing 101 and referencing case number 1685/15APR or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.