British police have arrested a third man in connection with a fire set outside the home of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, deepening the investigation into what authorities are treating as a potential politically motivated attack. The incident, which occurred last week, has raised security concerns just months into Starmer’s premiership.
The latest arrest was made on Monday, May 19, 2025, in north London, where Metropolitan Police officers detained a 34-year-old suspect on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Two other men, aged 25 and 40, had previously been arrested in connection with the same incident and remain in custody for questioning.
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
“This arrest is part of an active and complex investigation,” said Commander Dominic Murphy. “We are pursuing all lines of inquiry and continue to appeal for any witnesses or information.”
The fire occurred during the early hours outside the Prime Minister’s private residence in North London. Although the flames were quickly extinguished by emergency responders, damage was reported to the exterior entryway, and police have confirmed that Starmer and his family were present at the time. No injuries were reported.
Security services have since upgraded Starmer’s personal protection and are reviewing protocols around the residences of high-ranking government officials. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive but are investigating possible links to extremist groups or politically motivated actors. The possibility of a targeted attack against the Prime Minister is being taken “very seriously,” officials said.
Downing Street has not commented extensively on the incident but released a brief statement saying Prime Minister Starmer is “grateful for the swift action of the emergency services” and is focused on continuing his government’s work. Sources close to the PM said he was “shaken but unharmed” and remains in regular contact with the Metropolitan Police.
The incident has sparked political debate over rising hostility toward public officials and the effectiveness of current security arrangements. Members of Parliament from both Labour and Conservative parties have condemned the act as “cowardly” and called for a national review of threats against elected representatives.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper issued a statement denouncing the attack and reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting democratic institutions:
“There is no place in our society for violence or intimidation of political leaders. We are ensuring that security services have all necessary resources to respond.”
The arrest comes as the UK faces heightened political tension, with public protests, economic pressures, and debates over immigration and climate policy fueling frustration. While the vast majority of demonstrations have remained peaceful, authorities have warned of a growing number of “lone actor” threats inspired by political extremism and misinformation online.
The Metropolitan Police have asked the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Forensic teams continue to analyze evidence from the scene, including CCTV footage, cell phone data, and materials recovered at the time of the arrest.
This is not the first time a UK prime minister has faced direct threats. The attack on Starmer’s home draws comparisons to prior incidents involving security breaches, including the 2017 Westminster terror attack and attempted intrusions into Parliament.
As the investigation continues, the government is expected to introduce new legislation on political safety and harassment, expanding protections for MPs, civil servants, and journalists.
For now, the arrests offer some progress in the case, but questions remain about the motivations and potential networks behind the attack. With three suspects in custody, UK authorities are under pressure to reassure the public — and their leadership — that the rule of law remains firmly intact.
Source; Reuters
