An Indian restaurant in east London faced a suspected arson attack on Friday evening. The attack was captured on CCTV cameras, which shows three masked-men pouring liquid on the floor before flames spread quickly in the premises.
The restaurant is managed by Rohit Kaluvala and is famous for its 'authentic Indian flavors'.
Watch the viral clip:
Police confirmed that at least five people were injured in the fire. Later, a 54-year-old woman and a 15-year-old boy were booked on suspicion of arson, PTI reported. “I know the community members are concerned and shocked by this incident. I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to come forward and speak to the police,” Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers said.
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The victims included three women and two men who are believed to be diners at the restaurant. They sustained burn injuries and smoke inhalation. After the incident, they were treated by the London Ambulance Service paramedics before being taken to the hospital. Officers confirm that two of them are in critical condition. They also suspect two more victims, who might have fled the scene before the arrival of paramedics.
The London Ambulance Service stated, “We treated five people for burns and smoke inhalation. We took two patients to a major trauma centre and three others to local hospitals.”
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The neighbours stated that they heard loud screams as the fire spread through the restaurant.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that they were called at 9:02 pm to control the fire at Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill. “Part of the ground-floor restaurant was damaged by fire. The cause remains under investigation,” a spokesperson said.
The CCTV footage of the masked individuals is circulating online; however, The Daily Guardian could not independently verify its authenticity.
