A man from north London has become the third individual charged in connection with a series of arson attacks targeting properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed.
Suspect Identified as Petro Pochynok
Petro Pochynok, 34, was charged on Tuesday evening with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. He is the second Ukrainian national to be charged in the case and is expected to appear in court later today, Wednesday, 21 May.
According to the charge sheet, Pochynok is accused of conspiring with Roman Lavrynovych and Stanislav Carpiuc, along with others unknown, to damage by fire property belonging to another, with intent or recklessness regarding endangering life.
The alleged conspiracy spans from 17 April to 13 May 2025, during which three separate incidents occurred at locations in north London.
Timeline of Attacks
The targeted attacks include:
- 8 May – A vehicle fire in NW5
- 11 May – Fire at the entrance of a property in N7
- 12 May – Fire at a home in NW5 in the early hours
All of the affected properties or vehicles are understood to be connected to Sir Keir Starmer, prompting the involvement of counter-terrorism officers in the investigation.
Arrests and Court Proceedings So Far
- Roman Lavrynovych, 21, of Sydenham, also a Ukrainian national, was charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life. He was remanded in custody after a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 16 May.
- Stanislav Carpiuc, 26, of Romford, a Romanian national, has also been charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ on 20 May and was also remanded in custody.
Both Lavrynovych and Carpiuc are scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on 6 June.
Pochynok, the latest suspect, was arrested near Chelsea on 19 May on suspicion of being involved in the conspiracy.
Counter-Terrorism Involvement
Due to the connection to the Prime Minister and the potential risk to life, the investigation has been led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command. Authorities continue to explore the possibility of broader involvement, including any international links or motives.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated:
"We are treating these attacks with the utmost seriousness. The charges reflect the gravity of the offences, and investigations remain ongoing."
Public Safety and Political Implications
The alleged arson attacks have raised questions about political targeting and security around elected officials. No injuries were reported in the incidents, but the deliberate targeting of high-profile individuals has prompted security reassessments across key government properties.
The Prime Minister’s office has not commented publicly on the case, citing the ongoing legal process.
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