Arson Attacks Linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
Police have arrested a 21-year-old man over suspected arson attacks on two properties connected to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and a car. The man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remains in custody, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Events Leading to the Arrest
- Emergency services responded to a fire at the prime minister’s private home in Kentish Town, north London, early on Monday.
- On Sunday, first responders were called to a small fire at the front door of a house converted into flats in nearby Islington, also linked to Sir Keir.
- One person was helped to safety by firefighters during the incidents.
Investigation Details
Police are also examining a small car fire that occurred on the same street as the Kentish Town property on Thursday as part of the investigation. Counter-terrorism police are leading the inquiry and treating the fires as suspicious.
Police Statements and Reactions
The Metropolitan Police mentioned, “As a precaution and due to the property having previous connections with a high-profile public figure, officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command are leading the investigation into this fire.” The car fire occurred just before 03:00 BST on Thursday.
One neighbor recounted, “I heard people screaming ‘fire, fire!’ I looked out and you could see it lighting up the street.”
Property Damage and Ownership
The first fire was reported in Islington on Sunday just after 03:00, while the second occurred in Kentish Town on Monday at 01:11. The small fire was under control about 20 minutes later, causing damage to the property’s entrance with no reported injuries.
Sir Keir, who currently resides at Downing Street, is believed to still own the home in Kentish Town, which has been rented out since the 2024 general election.
Official Responses
Sir Keir thanked the emergency services for their swift response, as stated by his official spokesman. He refrained from further comments due to the ongoing investigation and declined to disclose details about the occupants during the fire.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed support for the police investigation, emphasizing the importance of letting law enforcement handle the matter.
Additional reporting by Thomas Mackintosh
Conclusion
The suspected arson attacks on properties associated with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have raised concerns and prompted a thorough investigation by law enforcement. With the involvement of counter-terrorism police, the authorities are diligently working to uncover the motives behind these incidents and ensure the safety of the public figure and the community.
FAQs
1. Are there any suspects in custody for the arson attacks?
Yes, a 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life in connection to the attacks on properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
2. What actions have been taken by the authorities regarding these incidents?
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the suspicious fires at the properties and the car. The police are treating the incidents seriously and are actively working to gather evidence and determine the cause of the fires.