Police investigating antisemitic hate crime after Jewish ambulances set alight in north London
It happened in Golders Green in the early hours of Monday.
Last updated 2 hours ago
Police in London are investigating a suspected antisemitic hate crime after four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance service were set alight in Golders Green.
The incident unfolded at 1.45am on Highfield Road, with the Metropolitan Police treating the attack as an antisemitic hate crime.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that no injuries were reported.
Police Investigation and Community Response
Superintendent Sarah Jackson, leading the local policing efforts, stated that the incident has stirred significant concern among community members.
Officers remain present on the scene as urgent inquiries are ongoing.
"We are in the process of examining CCTV and are aware of online footage. We believe we are looking for three suspects at this early stage," Jackson said.
No arrests have been made yet, and the police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward, assuring that tips can be submitted anonymously.
Additional patrols are being carried out in the area, and engagement with faith leaders is planned to reassure the community and maintain a visible presence.
Explosions and Safety Measures
The police have linked explosions at the site to gas cannisters onboard the ambulances.
As a precaution, nearby homes were evacuated, and road closures are still in effect.
Shomrim, a non-profit organisation that operates a neighbourhood watch in the area, acknowledged reports of loud explosions early Monday.
"Emergency services are on scene following a deliberate incident involving #Hatzola ambulances being set alight," Shomrim said in a post on X.
The explosions were reportedly caused by oxygen tanks, not bombs or explosive devices, and no casualties have been reported.
The Northwest London facility operated by fellow Jewish charity Hatzola remains fully functional.
Approximately 40 firefighters attended the scene, where multiple cylinders on the vehicles exploded, shattering windows in nearby flats.