Arson incidents in London have increased by 28%, from 1,894 in 2022 to 2,430 in 2024. Experts attribute this rise to social unrest, particularly emphasizing youth involvement, with a quarter of arson cases involving individuals aged 17 and under. Significant increases in arson were reported in Westminster, Sutton, and Haringey. Zack Polanski from the London Assembly has urged action from the mayor, the London Fire Brigade, and the police to mitigate risks, highlighting the consequences for public safety and the need for improved prevention measures.
A quarter of deliberate fires in London involve young people aged 17 and under, according to London Fire Brigade chiefs.
Arson is the straight go-to for social unrest. Arson is an accessible modus operandi, especially in countries where it is so hard to get firearms or explosives such as the UK.
Westminster, Sutton and Haringey have had the largest increase in arson attacks since 2022, by 106, 100 and 80 per cent respectively.
The increase in arson attacks not only affects property and infrastructure but also London's residents' sense of safety and wellbeing.
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