The Metropolitan Police confirmed an arrest following an arson attack on an Islamic centre in Maida Vale.
In a statement, officers attended the scene alongside the London Fire Brigade following reports of a fire at 00:15 on 3 February 2026.
The police confirmed no injuries or damage to the Islamic centre, as the fires went out before responders arrived, but at this stage, it is believed that two flammable objects were thrown into the grounds, causing damage to a cabin and a parked vehicle.
The suspect then left the scene in a car, the statement added.
Within twelve hours, officers announced the arrest of a 47-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
He remains in custody.
A spokesperson for the force urged calm and stated: “The Islamic Centre has previously been the site of protest and altercations between groups who support and are opposed to the regime in Iran.
“Tensions between those groups were already heightened given events in Iran in recent weeks, and we understand that this incident will be the cause of further community concern.
“We would urge everyone to remain calm, to allow officers to do their job through the investigation, and to avoid any sort of escalation.”
Tell MAMA is liaising with the Metropolitan Police further and will attempt provide further updates, as the public is urged to avoid speculation to maintain the integrity of the ongoing police investigation.
More generally, we are deeply concerned about the targeting of mosques in recent months. The security of mosques, like any place of worship, is paramount.
Anybody with information is urged to call 101, quoting crime reference 0069/03FEB.