Counter Terror Police have launched a probe into an alleged arson attack at a former synagogue in Whitechapel.
Police were called to Nelson Street, Tower Hamlets, in the early hours of Tuesday after the fire brigade arrived.
According to the Metropolitan Police, initial CCTV enquiries indicate that the fire was started intentionally just after 5am and the incident is being treated as arson.
Shomrim said: “Fire in disused synagogue treated as arson.
“Initial CCTV enquiries indicate that the fire was started deliberately.”
The Jewish security charity added: “This fire is being investigated alongside the many recent arson attacks and the stabbing targeting London’s Jewish community.
“Shomrim have increased security patrols across the community and urge the public to report any suspicious activity.”
Minor damage was allegedly caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building, and there are no reports of any injuries.
The former Orthodox shul was the site of the East London Central Synagogue.
In recent months, a local Muslim group have put down a deposit to buy the former shul and turn it into a mosque and community centre.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who leads policing in the area, said officers were taking the incident “extremely seriously and we will be working closely with colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation”.
“The building targeted has not been operational as a synagogue for some years, but that will be of little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney and beyond, who are first in my thoughts this morning.
“Local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while enquiries into this incident continue.”
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of CTP London, which is leading the investigation, said: “This incident follows on from a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north west of the city, and we will be considering any potential links as the investigation gets underway.
“Detectives are already working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible, and I would urge anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police.
“Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to the various incidents.
“We’re providing protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses.
“With the threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe.
“If you see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.”
The Ashaadibi group recently put down a deposit of £235,000 and launched an appeal to buy Nelson Street, one of the last east London Synagogues, in a bid to convert the historical building into a mosque, community and education centre.
The century-old synagogue was due to have been auctioned on behalf of the Federation of Synagogues at a guide price of £2 million, but Ashaadibi is fundraising £3 million to transform the former shul.
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