Police Hunt Suspects in Hatzola Ambulance Arson
London police are investigating a suspected antisemitic arson attack that destroyed four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a Jewish volunteer emergency medical service, in the early hours of Monday morning. The ambulances were parked outside a synagogue in the Stamford Hill area of North London when they were deliberately set ablaze, according to authorities.
Counter-terror police are leading the investigation, treating the incident as a potential hate crime. Investigators are seeking three suspects, but have released no further details about their identities or potential motives. The attack has prompted widespread condemnation from Jewish community leaders and politicians.
Hatzola provides rapid medical response within the Orthodox Jewish community, operating a fleet of ambulances and highly trained volunteer paramedics. The loss of these vehicles significantly impacts their ability to respond to emergencies in the area. “This is a deeply concerning incident, and we are working closely with the police to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” said a spokesperson for Hatzola, declining to be named pending the ongoing investigation.
The incident comes amid heightened concerns about antisemitism in the United Kingdom and across Europe. Recent data from the Community Security Trust (CST), a charity that monitors antisemitism in the UK, shows a significant increase in reported antisemitic incidents in recent years, particularly following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict. According to CBS News, four ambulances were targeted in the attack.
The Metropolitan Police have increased patrols in areas with large Jewish communities in response to the incident. “We understand the concern this will cause, and we are committed to tackling hate crime in all its forms,” said a statement released by the Metropolitan Police. The investigation is focusing on identifying potential witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area.
The arson attack has drawn condemnation from political leaders. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described the incident as “despicable” and pledged to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Labour Party leader Keir Starmer also condemned the attack, stating that it was a “shocking and deeply disturbing act of antisemitism.”
The incident is being investigated alongside a separate arson attack on Jewish charity ambulances reported earlier this month, raising concerns about a coordinated campaign of antisemitic violence. The BBC reported that counter-terror police are also investigating that earlier incident.
As of Monday afternoon, the scene remains cordoned off as forensic teams continue to gather evidence. Police have not yet released any information about the type of accelerant used in the attack, or whether the ambulances were specifically targeted due to their association with the Jewish community. The investigation continues.