A trial date has been confirmed in the ongoing arson investigation surrounding attacks on two properties and a vehicle connected to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The case, drawing national attention, involves three foreign nationals charged with offences relating to deliberate fire-setting incidents in north London.
Three accused of targeting homes and car linked to Prime Minister
The arson investigation stems from three incidents in May which police believe were targeted. These include fires set at the former residence of Sir Keir Starmer and another north London property, as well as a vehicle ablaze on the same street.
On Friday, Roman Lavrynovych, 21, a Ukrainian national residing in Lewisham, south-east London, appeared before the Old Bailey alongside 26-year-old Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc, from Romford. Both participated via video link from HMP Belmarsh.
Petro Pochynok, 34, another Ukrainian national based in Islington, refused to attend the hearing. All three are central to the arson investigation, accused of targeting sites linked to the Prime Minister.
Charges Laid in Connection With the Fires
- Lavrynovych faces three counts of arson with intent to endanger life in relation to incidents on 8, 11, and 12 May.
- Carpiuc and Pochynok are charged with conspiracy to commit arson over a broader timeframe spanning 17 April to 13 May.
The fires occurred on the following dates:
- 8 May: A vehicle set on fire in Kentish Town.
- 11 May: A blaze at the front door of a converted flat in Islington.
- 12 May: Fire at the former home of Sir Keir Starmer.
Justice Cheema Grubb informed the court that Pochynok had refused to leave his cell for the preliminary hearing. The other two defendants, appearing with the help of interpreters, confirmed only their names and birth dates.
The arson investigation is being closely watched due to the high-profile nature of the alleged targets.
All three men have been remanded in custody. Their next court appearance will be a plea and trial preparation hearing on 17 October.
A provisional trial date has been set for 27 April 2026, with proceedings to take place before a High Court judge.
The arson investigation has widened. A fourth man, aged 48, was arrested earlier this week at Stansted Airport on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
According to the Metropolitan Police, he has since been released on bail until July, as enquiries continue. Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive behind these attacks. However, the arson investigation remains active, and further developments are anticipated.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Police or Crimestoppers anonymously.
