26 September 2025 , 20:38
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A 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a fire at a hotel accommodating asylum seekers in central London.
The fire occurred on the premises in Dingley Road, Islington, shortly after 10:50 pm on Wednesday, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The police previously confirmed that the address was the Thistle City Barbican Hotel and stated that the incident is being treated as a hate crime.
No injuries were reported, and the staff at the hotel had extinguished the fire before the police arrived.
The man was also arrested on suspicion of possessing a bladed weapon and has been taken into custody where he remains, according to the police.
Commander Hayley Sewart, who is leading the Met’s investigation, said: “I would like to thank my team for their quick and effective work in identifying the suspect and making this arrest.
“We understand the ongoing concern in the local community, and our investigation is continuing at pace.”
Inquiries are ongoing, and the incident continues to be investigated as a hate crime, the police added.
Nine people were arrested following a protest and counter-protest outside the hotel in August.
World Affairs Correspondent