By James Simons-
Two people have been arrested as part of a counter-terrorism investigation into an arson attack on a memorial wall in Golders Green last week.
A 46-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman were detained on the morning of Monday, 4 May at an address in Romford. Both were arrested on suspicion of arson and taken to a London police station, where they remain in custody. Officers are also conducting a search at the Romford address.
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The arrests follow a reported fire at a memorial wall on Limes Avenue, NW11, at around 00:15hrs on Monday, 27 April. Police received a report of the incident later that day at approximately 19:30hrs. The wall is understood to display images of protesters allegedly killed by the Iranian state in January.
The investigation is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing and remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 7308/27APR, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries since the incident was reported, with the arrests marking significant progress.
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She added that counter-terrorism officers are currently investigating a number of incidents across north-west London, including those following an attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green in March. In total, 30 arrests have been made in connection with related incidents, with nine individuals charged.
Police say they are working closely with colleagues from the Metropolitan Police, providing security advice and support to community organisations, venues and businesses.
With the UK threat level currently set at severe, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.
Since the March incidents, the Metropolitan Police has launched what it describes as its most intensive set of community operations to date, deploying thousands of additional officer shifts. This includes armed patrols and officers from Project Servator, who are specially trained to identify individuals who may be preparing to commit criminal acts.
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