Arson attack on Indian restaurant in London: Teenager, man held; two injured remain critical

Police in east London have arrested a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on suspicion of arson following a blaze at an Indian restaurant that left five people injured, including two in critical condition.According to the Metropolitan Police, a fire broke out at the Indian Aroma restaurant in Woodford Avenue in Gants Hill, Ilford, on Friday night.Three women and two men, believed to be diners, suffered burns and were treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital. Two of them, a man and a woman remain in critical condition, the police said.Neighbours reported hearing "loud screams" as the restaurant was engulfed in flames.CCTV footage obtained by the PA news agency appeared to show a group of masked individuals entering the restaurant, pouring liquid onto the floor, and within seconds the place was engulfed in flames.

"We sent resources to the scene, including ambulance crews, an advanced paramedic, an incident response officer and paramedics from our hazardous area response team," the London Ambulance Service said."We treated five people for burns and smoke inhalation. We took two patients to a major trauma centre and three others to local hospitals," it added.

Both suspects remain in custody on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Police also believe that "there are two further victims who left the scene before officers arrived. Efforts remain ongoing to identify them."Detective chief inspector Mark Rogers of the Met Police’s Central Specialist Crime North unit said that, "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 members are concerned and shocked by this incident. I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to come forward and speak to police," he added.The restaurant was badly damaged in the fire.The London Fire Brigade said crews rushed to the scene after a 9:02 pm call, and a spokesperson confirmed that "part of the ground-floor restaurant was damaged by fire.""Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued five people from the restaurant. They were all taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service. Around nine further people were able to leave the restaurant before firefighters arrived,"he added.The restaurant, managed by Rohit Kaluvala, brands itself as dedicated to serving the "authentic flavours of India."