An Indian restaurant in east London was the scene of a violent arson attack that left five people injured and led to two arrests.
The fire broke out late on Friday night at the Indian Aroma restaurant in Ilford, causing chaos as flames engulfed the building.
According to the Metropolitan Police, three women and two men, believed to be diners, sustained serious burn injuries.
Emergency teams from the London Ambulance Service treated the victims at the scene before transporting them to hospital. Their conditions have not yet been fully disclosed.
Witnesses described hearing loud screams as the blaze spread rapidly through the premises, leaving the restaurant with extensive damage.
Local residents reported thick smoke and frantic efforts to rescue those trapped inside.
Police arrested a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Both remain in custody while investigations continue.
Detectives are now working to determine whether the attack was premeditated and if there are any wider links.
The fire has raised concerns within the Ilford community, home to a large South Asian population, where the restaurant was a popular dining spot.
Officers have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents while forensic teams examine the site.
The restaurant’s owners have not yet issued a statement, but the venue remains closed as recovery work begins.
This case adds to growing concerns about arson-related crimes in London, with the Metropolitan Police urging anyone with information or footage from the night to come forward.