Three individuals have been hospitalised following a suspected arson attack at a restaurant in Ilford. The incident occurred on Friday night after 9pm at a venue located on Woodford Avenue in Gants Hill. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, where five people—three women and two men—sustained injuries. Of these, three are reported to be in a life-threatening condition.

The Metropolitan Police have launched an investigation into the fire, treating it as a suspected arson. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers from the Met’s Central Specialist Crime North unit stated, "We understand this incident will cause concern within the community. My team of specialist detectives are working at speed to piece the incident together."

Local residents can expect a significant police presence in the area as investigations continue. DCI Rogers encouraged anyone with concerns to approach officers on the ground.

According to the London Fire Brigade (LFB), part of the restaurant's ground floor was damaged in the blaze. Fortunately, nine people inside the establishment managed to escape before the fire intensified. The LFB received seven calls regarding the fire and dispatched crews from Ilford, Hainault, Leytonstone, and Woodford fire stations. The fire was successfully extinguished by 10.32pm.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who represents the local area, expressed gratitude to the police, fire brigade, and ambulance service for their prompt response on Friday night. The Metropolitan Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact them via 101, quoting reference number 7559/22AUG. Those wishing to remain anonymous can reach out to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.