Teenager and a 54-year-old arrested for arson attack at Indian restaurant in London

An arson attack took place in Indian Aroma, a busy restaurant in Gants Hill, Ilford of Greater London, on Friday night, leaving five people injured, three of them fighting for their lives.

The fire broke out shortly after 9 pm on Woodford Avenue. According to the Metropolitan Police, five confirmed victims, three women and two men  were injured. Two of them, a man and a woman, remain in a life-threatening condition. Police also believe two additional victims fled the scene before officers arrived, and efforts are underway to identify them.

On Sunday, detectives arrested a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Both remain in custody as investigations continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, of the Met’s Central Specialist Crime North unit, said: “While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening. I know the community are concerned and shocked by this incident. I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to come forward and speak to police.”

A heavy police presence remains in the area as inquiries progress.