WHITECHAPEL — Metropolitan Police counter-terrorism officers arrested a 45-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman on Sunday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson in connection with a fire at the former East London Central Synagogue in Whitechapel. Police and firefighters were called to the building at 5.16am on Tuesday, where minor damage was caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the property.

No one was injured in the fire. Initial CCTV footage indicated that the fire was started deliberately. The former synagogue was in the process of being sold to a local Somali Muslim organisation.

"Today's arrests are a significant step in our investigation into this attack and our inquiries are ongoing. Our aim continues to arrest and charge all those responsible for the arson attacks and other incidents targeted at Jewish, Israeli and Iranian sites in recent weeks. We will not tolerate these hateful attacks on communities," said Helen Flanagan, head of counter-terrorism policing London.

Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter, who oversees policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: "This attack happened at a synagogue in the process of being sold to a local Somali Muslim organisation, and I know that those of all faiths in the local area have felt targeted and together condemn this horrendous act. Our work to engage with and reassure all communities affected by recent events continues, and as always we want to hear of any fears or concerns so we can address them." The Metropolitan Police announced a new dedicated community protection team of 100 extra officers to provide a more visible, intelligence-led and coordinated presence focused on protecting Jewish communities across London.

A total of 33 people have been arrested as part of the counter-terrorism investigations connected to the attack on ambulances operated by the Jewish volunteer group Hatzola in March and a number of other arson attacks and incidents. Eight of the arrested people have been charged.