CT Police investigating fire at PM's property

A man has been arrested following a series of arson attacks around London.

A 21-year-old was arrested on Tuesday 13 May on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, in relation to three incidents.

Police attended a fire at a residential address in NW5 on Monday 12 May at 1:35 am. Damage was caused to the property's entrance, but nobody was hurt.

The Met's Counter Terrorism Command are leading the investigation into the fire, due to the property having previous connections with a high-profile public figure - believed to be prime minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Two other incidents are also being investigated - a vehicle fire in NW5 on Thursday 8 May and a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on Sunday 11 May.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “We are working at pace and continue to explore various lines of enquiry to establish the cause of the fires, and any potential motivation for these. A key line of enquiry is whether the fires are linked due to the two premises and the vehicle all having previous links to the same high-profile public figure.

“We recognise that this investigation may cause concern to other public figures - particularly MPs. The protection of MPs is something we take extremely seriously across the whole of policing and I would encourage any MP who is concerned about their own safety to get in touch with their dedicated local Operation Bridger officer, who can provide further advice and support.

“In the meantime, our investigation remains ongoing and we will continue to work closely with local officers in the areas affected. Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in those areas over the coming days, but if anyone has concerns, then please speak with a local officer, or call us.”