Fourth suspect arrested over Jewish charity ambulance arson attack

Another Suspect Added to Jewish Charity Ambulance Attack Case

Arrest Details and Court Proceedings

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced the apprehension of a fourth individual linked to the incident involving Jewish charity ambulances in north London. This suspect was detained at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday morning, as reported by police. A man was observed exiting the courthouse under custody. The court revealed that four people were involved in the attack, with three already charged appearing in court that day and subsequently remanded in custody.

The three accused are Hamza Iqbal, 20, and Rehan Khan, 19, both from Leyton, and a 17-year-old boy with dual British-Pakistani nationality. They face charges of arson with intent to damage property and endangering lives through reckless behavior. The ambulances belonging to Hatzola were torched in the car park of a Golders Green synagogue on 23 March, resulting in damage valued at nearly £1 million.

Attack Context and Suspects’ Appearance

Prosecutors presented evidence indicating the attack was a deliberate act aimed at the Jewish community. The suspects, dressed in grey tracksuits, provided only their names and addresses during the court session. Their families attended the proceedings. Legal restrictions prevented the 17-year-old’s name from being disclosed.

“Since this appalling attack last week, we have been working continuously to investigate and identify those responsible,” stated Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London.

The Metropolitan Police noted that the incident has not been classified as terrorism, though counter-terror officers lead the inquiry. Investigations are ongoing to determine if an Iranian-backed group connected to the attack was involved. Det Ch Sup Luke Williams, overseeing North West London policing, highlighted that heightened patrols in Jewish-populated areas are precautionary, not a reaction to a specific threat.

Following the incident, community support for Jewish populations has been described as “incredible.” The three charged individuals will next appear at the Old Bailey on 24 April.

Investigation Progress

Earlier this week, two men aged 45 and 47 were detained in the case and released on bail until late April. The CPS emphasized that the investigation continues to uncover potential links to the group that claimed responsibility for the attack. Counter-terror police remain focused on identifying the perpetrators and assessing the broader context of the incident.