Shocking house fire at British prime minister's home: suspect arrested

By Christoph Meyer

London (Great Britain) - Police have arrested a suspect in the case of the fires at two properties belonging to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (62).

The investigation is being led by the anti-terror unit.
The investigation is being led by the anti-terror unit.  © James Manning/PA Wire/dpa

The 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, the British news agency PA reported, citing Scotland Yard.

Previously, fires had broken out at the prime minister's house in north London and at another of Starmer's properties within 24 hours.

A car fire was also being investigated, the report said. The investigation is being led by the counter-terrorism unit.

House has already been the target of protest

Keir Starmer's house has already been the target of pro-Palestinian protests.
Keir Starmer's house has already been the target of pro-Palestinian protests.  © Ian Vogler/Pool Daily Mirror via AP/dpa

According to the police, no one was injured in the incidents. The head of government has lived with his family in Downing Street since taking office, and his house in the Kentish Town district has reportedly been rented out since then.

Last year, Starmer's house was the target of pro-Palestinian protests when the then leader of the opposition was still living there with his family. Three people were found guilty of disturbing public order.