Ilford Restaurant Fire Injures Five, Two Critical

Download IPFS

A 15-year-old schoolboy and a 54-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire at an Ilford restaurant left five people injured. Emergency services were called to Indian Aroma on Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill, around 9 p.m. on Friday.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that three women and two men were injured in the blaze. Two victims, a man and a woman, remain in a life-threatening condition in the hospital. Efforts to identify two additional potential victims who left the scene before officers arrived are ongoing.

The teenage boy and adult man were arrested on Sunday on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Both remain in police custody as inquiries continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, from the Met’s Central Specialist Crime North unit, said: “While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening.”

Firefighters responded quickly to the scene, working to control the blaze and ensure all patrons were evacuated safely. Witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke coming from the restaurant as emergency services arrived.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Police are appealing for anyone who may have been at the restaurant during the incident or who has information about the two additional victims to come forward.

This incident has heightened concern among residents, with community leaders calling for a thorough investigation to ensure safety in public spaces. The police have assured the public that every effort is being made to determine the circumstances leading to the fire and to hold those responsible accountable.

Authorities continue to review CCTV footage and speak to witnesses to build a clearer picture of the events that led to the fire. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Police.

The arrests highlight the ongoing vigilance of law enforcement in responding swiftly to serious crimes that endanger life, and the community is urged to remain alert while the investigation progresses.