Police arrest two men over arson attack on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green

British police are investigating a serious arson attack that destroyed four ambulances belonging to the Jewish volunteer organization Hatzola Northwest in the early hours of Monday, March 23, 2026, in the Golders Green area of north London.

“British police have arrested two men in connection with an arson attack on four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity, which authorities are investigating as an antisemitic hate crime”

ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

The attack occurred around 1:35 AM when three individuals were captured on CCTV footage pouring accelerant on the vehicles before setting them on fire and fleeing the scene.

ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

The blaze was so intense that oxygen cylinders in the ambulances exploded, causing damage to an adjacent apartment building.

The incident has prompted significant police response, with Counter Terrorism detectives leading the investigation and treating it as an antisemitic hate crime, though not officially classified as a terror incident.

The attack took place in a neighborhood with a large Jewish population and near a synagogue, raising serious concerns about community safety during the upcoming Passover holiday.

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, British police made significant progress in the investigation by arresting two men, aged 47 and 45, in connection with the arson attack.

The arrests were carried out at separate addresses in northwest London and central London respectively, with both men taken into custody on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Associated Press News

Counter Terrorism detectives conducted searches at both addresses as part of the ongoing investigation.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor confirmed that over 200 extra officers would be deployed to protect Jewish communities in the lead-up to Passover, which runs from April 1-9, 2026.

The enhanced security measures include specialist teams such as firearms officers, the mounted branch, and drone surveillance to ensure community safety during this sensitive period.

The investigation into the arson attack is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, with police actively exploring connections to international extremism.

“British police have arrested two men following a suspected antisemitic arson attack in which several ambulances belonging to a Jewish volunteer rescue organization were set on fire in north London”

CNN

Authorities have confirmed they are investigating an online claim of responsibility by a little-known Islamist group that has potential links to Iran.

While police have not officially declared the incident to be a terror attack, the investigation into potential Iranian connections continues.

This comes amid growing concerns in Britain about rising levels of anti-Semitism and warnings from authorities about the threat posed by Iran, including potential surveillance or targeting of Jewish sites.

Tehran has consistently denied such accusations. The Metropolitan Police has emphasized that the investigation remains active and they are committed to identifying and arresting all individuals involved in what Commander Helen Flanagan described as an 'appalling attack.'

The attack has sparked an overwhelming community response, with a fundraiser on the CharityExtra platform raising more than £3.2 million within days of the incident, far exceeding its initial £4.6 million target.

The funds are intended to help Hatzola find new, safer premises and replace the destroyed ambulances.

Le Monde

Health Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed that the government has loaned four ambulances to the service and is funding permanent replacements, stating that the donated money will help the organization emerge 'stronger, not weaker' from the attack.

Hatzola chairman Shloimie Richman described Monday as the 'darkest day' in the charity's 40-year history, emphasizing the critical role the ambulances played in serving the Jewish community.

The rapid and generous response has demonstrated strong community solidarity and determination to ensure the continuation of vital emergency services in the area.

Despite the arrests made, police investigations continue to focus on identifying additional suspects involved in the arson attack.

“News - Two men arrested in connection with Golders Green arson attack Counter Terrorism detectives investigating an arson attack on volunteer-led ambulances run by the Jewish community in Golders Green have arrested two men in connection with the incident”

Metropolitan Police News

CCTV footage clearly shows that at least three people were involved in the incident, and detectives are actively searching for a third suspect.

Metropolitan Police News

Commander Helen Flanagan emphasized that while the arrests mark 'an important breakthrough in the investigation,' the probe remains very active.

Police have appealed to the public for any information that could assist with identifying the remaining individuals involved.

The investigation involves multiple agencies and specialized teams, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities are treating this hate crime.

An enhanced police presence continues to be maintained around affected communities in north London as a precautionary measure, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to ensuring community safety while the investigation continues.