Counter terror police launch probe into suspected arson attack on Iranian memorial wall in north London

Investigators from Counter Terrorism Policing London are working alongside North West Command Area officers on the case.

It is not being treated as a terrorism case and police are maintaining an open mind regarding the perpetrator's motivation. No suspects have been arrested.

The memorial wall, which pays tribute to Iranian protesters who have been killed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), escaped damage in the incident.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, the senior officer responsible for policing in north west London, acknowledged the heightened anxiety the incident would cause locally.

He said: "We recognise that this incident will heighten concerns in the Golders Green area, where residents have already faced a series of attacks.

"We are working closely with community organisations and leaders, and want to reassure them that our protective security operation continues.

"Our local officers are working closely with Counter Terror Policing to support their investigation."

Locals claim the police initially told them the fire was started by a candle that had fallen over, but Ali Vahedi, who helps to look after the wall, says that wasn’t possible as the candles are blown out every night.

Mr Vahedi told GB News: "They took 4 hours to check the cameras on the building opposite to realise it wasn’t from the candles.

"Then they took it seriously, but this is too late."

He added: "We have to sleep in a car next to the wall because something could happen again.

"We don’t feel safe at all, unfortunately the UK Government is not supportive, they do nothing for us."

The area has experienced multiple attacks in recent weeks, prompting authorities to strengthen their engagement with local community groups.

Following last month's attack on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green, police have significantly bolstered their visible presence across the neighbourhood.

Metropolitan police say the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act and they are keeping an open mind about the motive.

But Vahid Baghi, who organises the Make Iran Great Again rally and looks after the memorial wall, said: "The police didn’t believe us…There is no way this was an accident, it was 100 per cent a terrorist attack"

Detective Chief Superintendent Williams said: "This includes armed police patrols as well as deployments of officers from Project Servator, who are specially trained to spot anyone who may be planning or preparing to commit criminal acts."

Witnesses or anyone possessing relevant information should contact police on 101, citing reference CAD 7308/27Apr.

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.