A former synagogue in London has been hit with a suspected arson attack – as counter-terrorism police launch an investigation.

Officers were called today at 5.16am by the London Fire Brigade to reports of a blaze at a former synagogue in Nelson Street in Tower Hamlets, east London.

Officers found minor damage to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building, while there were no reports of any people injured.

Initial CCTV enquiries indicate the fire was started intentionally at about 5.10am and the incident is being treated as arson. There have been no arrests.

Det Chief Supt Brittany Clarke, who leads policing in the area, said: ‘We are taking this 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 their 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.’

Anyone with information about this morning’s arson is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY.

Since the recent arson attack in Golders Green in north London, the Met Police says it has launched the most intensive set of community operations the force has ever run.

There have been a series of arson attacks at Jewish sites in London, as well as the double stabbing in Golders Green that is being treated as an act of terrorism.

Most of the attacks have been claimed by a group called Hayi, that is suspected to be backed by Iran in a bid to sow division in Britain.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is hosting a meeting of senior public figures on Tuesday to drive forward the UK’s response to anti-Semitism.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow…