Police granted more time to question man over fires at properties linked to PM

Counter-terror officers arrested a man, 26, at Luton Airport on Saturday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

By contributor Christopher McKeon, PA Political Correspondent, and Rosie Shead, PA
Published
Supporting image for story: Police granted more time to question man over fires at properties linked to PM
Police are investigating a fire at Sir Keir Starmer’s house in north London (James Manning/PA)

Police have been granted more time to question a second man arrested in connection with suspected arson attacks on properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Counter-terror officers arrested a 26-year-old man at Luton Airport on Saturday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life, according to a statement from the Metropolitan Police.

The arrest, which took place shortly before 2pm, follows fires at Sir Keir’s home in Kentish Town, as well as another property and a car linked to the Prime Minister earlier this month.

On Sunday, a warrant of further detention was obtained at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, meaning the man can be detained for an additional 36 hours, according to the Metropolitan Police.

Roman Lavrynovych, a 21-year-old Ukrainian man, has already been charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life in connection with the fires.

Lavrynovych, of Sydenham, south-east London, denied arson in a police interview.

He appeared in court on Friday and was remanded in custody until a further hearing at the Old Bailey scheduled for June 6.