23 March 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Police in London are investigating a suspected hate crime after several ambulances belonging to the Hatzola Volunteer Ambulance Service, a Jewish community emergency medical organization, were set on fire.
Emergency services responded after reports that vehicles parked at a facility linked to the volunteer ambulance group had been deliberately torched. The blaze caused significant damage to the ambulances, which are used to provide rapid medical assistance to members of the local community.
Authorities believe the incident may have been a targeted act against the Jewish community, and detectives are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to identify those responsible.
The Metropolitan Police Service confirmed that the fire is being treated as suspicious and that investigations are underway. Officers are also working with community leaders to provide reassurance and strengthen security in the area.
Hatzola, which operates in several cities around the world, relies heavily on volunteers who respond to medical emergencies and support local health services. The destruction of ambulances could impact the group’s ability to provide rapid emergency response.
Community representatives strongly condemned the attack, describing it as deeply disturbing and harmful to a service dedicated to saving lives. Many leaders stressed that targeting emergency vehicles is unacceptable under any circumstances.
Local officials also expressed concern over rising incidents of hate-related crimes and emphasized the importance of protecting community organizations and public safety services.
Police have appealed to the public for information and urged anyone with relevant details to come forward as the investigation continues.
Authorities say they are committed to ensuring the safety of all communities in London and bringing those responsible for the attack to justice.
Summary :
Several ambulances belonging to London’s Hatzola Volunteer Ambulance Service were set on fire in a suspected hate crime, prompting a police investigation and condemnation from community leaders.