Investigation launched after attempted arson attack in Finchley

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward following an attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Finchley.

The incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.

Two suspects, who were wearing dark clothing and balaclavas, approached the synagogue in Fallow Court Avenue, Finchley shortly after midnight, 00:00hrs, on Wednesday, 15 April and threw two bottles, suspected to contain petrol, and a brick at the building.

Neither bottle ignited and no damage was reported. There were no injuries.

The matter was reported by staff to police at 08:30hrs.

Officers are conducting urgent enquiries to trace the suspects. No arrests have been made at this early stage.

The incident is being investigated by detectives from the Met’s North West Command Unit, with support from specialist detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, said:

“We are aware of the significant concern that this incident will cause in the community, particularly in the wake of the arson attack in Golders Green last month. We are working with the affected synagogue and continuing to meet with community leaders.

“I would like to reassure the community that we take incidents of this nature extremely seriously and detectives are working urgently to identify the suspects.

“If you have any CCTV, dash cam footage or information that could help officers please contact the police.

“Residents can expect to see a heightened police presence in the area over the coming days. We have brought in additional officers and would urge anyone with concerns to speak to them.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, providing the reference 1686/15APR or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.