Arrests over Persian media offices arson attempt
Three people have been detained after an arson attempt targeted a Persian language media organization’s offices in northwest London. The attack took place in Wembley on Wednesday at approximately 20:30 BST, when an ignited object was hurled at the building. No damage or injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
Policemen pursued a black SUV following the event, which ultimately crashed on Ballards Lane. A 16-year-old boy and two men, 19 and 21 years old, were arrested on suspicion of causing an arson that endangered lives. The container landed in a car park, where the fire was quickly extinguished. The SUV was later seen departing the scene before being intercepted by officers.
Nearby buildings were evacuated as a precautionary measure but were swiftly reopened once police confirmed no broader public risk. The Metropolitan Police emphasized that the incident is not being treated as an act of terrorism and is not currently thought to be connected to other recent arson cases in the area. Detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London are leading the investigation, backed by local officers.
The Met stated the attack is not linked to the Wednesday arson attempt at a synagogue in Finchley or the previous incident involving four ambulances targeted by the Jewish community charity Hatzola in Golders Green. For further updates, listen to BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Submit your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.
