Three individuals are being sought by authorities following the torching of ambulances, prompting the evacuation of structures in what is being investigated as an antisemitic hate crime. The incident occurred in the Golders Green neighborhood in the northwestern part of London early on Monday, March 23.
The Metropolitan Police released a statement confirming that the arson attack is being treated as a hate crime, specifically targeting the Jewish community in Golders Green, known for its significant Jewish population.
Four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance service were set ablaze, sparking an immediate investigation by the authorities. The incident resulted in the evacuation of nearby residences as a precautionary measure, with road closures in effect. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and the fires have been extinguished.
The Israel embassy in London strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation and decisive action to combat the rising antisemitism in the city.
Superintendent Sarah Jackson, overseeing the local policing, expressed the community’s concerns and assured ongoing efforts to apprehend the suspects. The investigation is currently focusing on three individuals believed to be involved in the arson.
Political figures including Sir Keir Starmer and the Prime Minister have denounced the antisemitic attack, stressing that such hatred has no place in society. The police are examining CCTV footage and appealing for any information from the public to aid in the investigation.
Hatzola, a vital volunteer emergency medical service serving the Jewish community in Golders Green, has been operational since 1979. The incident has prompted a united front against antisemitism, with collaborative efforts from law enforcement and emergency services to ensure public safety.
The London Fire Brigade provided details on their response to the incident, highlighting the damage caused by the fires and the subsequent explosions from cylinders onboard the ambulances. Efforts to determine the cause of the fire are ongoing.
Reports indicate that security camera footage captured masked individuals setting one of the ambulances on fire, aligning with the ongoing investigation into the antisemitic hate crime. Despite the shocking incident, no casualties have been reported.
The community has rallied against the attack, emphasizing the need for swift action to address the escalating issue of antisemitism. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, urging cooperation from the public to bring the perpetrators to justice.