Gladness Gideon
A third suspect has been formally charged in connection with a string of arson attacks targeting properties associated with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Metropolitan Police confirmed on Wednesday.
The accused, Petro Pochynok, a 34-year-old Ukrainian national, is facing charges of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. He is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court later today.
Pochynok’s arrest follows a widening investigation led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, which was assigned the case due to the high-profile nature of the targeted locations. Authorities say three separate incidents are under scrutiny: a vehicle set ablaze on May 8 and two fires at residential properties on May 11 and 12 — all believed to be connected to the prime minister.
Earlier this week, two other suspects were arraigned. Roman Lavrynovych, 21, also a Ukrainian national, was charged last week with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody and is scheduled to reappear in court on June 6. Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc, 26, was charged with conspiracy to commit arson and also remanded until the same date.
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One of the targeted locations includes Starmer’s former family home in Kentish Town, north London. Though the Labour leader no longer resides there, he retains ownership of the property. Following Labour’s electoral win last year, Starmer relocated to the official prime ministerial residence at 10 Downing Street.
Investigators are treating the incidents as deliberate and coordinated attacks, with possible political or personal motivations under review. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive.
In a statement, police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of public officials: “Given the connection of the targeted properties to a prominent government figure, this investigation has been led by Counter Terrorism Command to assess all potential risks and motives.”
The investigation remains active, and police continue to appeal for any information that could assist in the case.