5 people were injured after an arson attempt took place at an Indian restaurant, called the ‘Indian Aroma’ in East London on the night of August 22.
According to the Metropolitan Police, three women and two men—believed to be diners—suffered burn injuries.
Emergency responders from the London Ambulance Service treated them at the scene before transferring them to hospital. A man and a woman remain in life-threatening condition.
CCTV footage from inside the restaurant shows a group of masked individuals pouring a flammable liquid across the floor before setting the premises ablaze. In separate footage captured outside, a man is seen fleeing the scene with his clothes engulfed in flames.
In the wake of the attack, police arrested a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on Sunday. Both are being held on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remain in police custody.
“While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening,” said Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers of the Met Police’s Central Specialist Crime North unit.
“I know the community members are concerned and shocked by this incident. I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to come forward and speak to the police,” he said.
The suspects were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remain in police custody.
There was a large police presence in the Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill, area of the restaurant over the weekend.
The targeted restaurant, managed by Rohit Kaluvala, is known for its award-winning Indian cuisine and high-profile clientele, including film crews, business leaders, and community organisations.
Its website proudly highlights a commitment to authentic flavours, top-tier service, and cultural engagement.
“Some of our clientele include movie executives, film and television crews, religious and cultural events, charity and business events, and religious and cultural events. Our restaurant is highly known for both its first-rate customer service and its high-quality, distinctive Indian cuisine served with its authentic recipes,” its website notes, highlighting curry award wins over the years.
Meanwhile, the London Fire Brigade said it will continue to investigate the root-cause of the blaze.