Firefighters responded swiftly to an arson attack at the century-old East London Central Synagogue on Nelson Street, Whitechapel, early on May 5. Flames engulfed the front entrance shortly after 5:10am, prompting a full investigation by the Metropolitan Police and counter terrorism officers amid concerns the blaze was deliberately set.
CCTV footage has revealed that the fire was intentionally started minutes before it was noticed. The blaze caused damage to gates and locks at the front of the building but resulted in no injuries. The synagogue has been unused since 2020 and was recently listed for auction with a £2 million asking price.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke of the Metropolitan Police highlighted the seriousness of the attack and announced plans for an increased police presence in Tower Hamlets to ensure community safety. Helen Flanagan from Counter Terrorism Policing London urged anyone with information or footage related to the incident to come forward to aid in identifying suspects.
In response to this fire and other recent incidents targeting Jewish sites in London, the Metropolitan Police have deployed thousands of additional officer shifts. This includes armed patrols and specialist Project Servator officers trained to detect potential threats, aiming to reassure and protect local communities.
This arson attack follows multiple recent assaults on Jewish locations across north-west London, including attacks on Hatzola ambulances and synagogues. Police are investigating possible links between these incidents and maintain a high alert level to safeguard public safety.
Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the Whitechapel synagogue arson to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY. The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to bring those responsible to justice.
Originally published by UKNIP.
