A 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man were arrested on Sunday on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after a fire at Indian Aroma in Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill, Ilford. Five people were injured in the blaze—three women and two men—with two of the injured in a life-threatening condition.

Emergency services were called to the restaurant at about 21:00 on Friday. Police believe two further victims may have left the scene before officers arrived and are trying to identify them. CCTV footage shows a group with faces covered entering the premises and pouring liquid onto the floor; seconds later the interior was engulfed in flames, and a man was seen running from the building with his clothing on fire.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, of the Met’s central specialist crime north unit, said: “While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening. I know the community are concerned and shocked by this incident. I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to come forward and speak to police.” The Met asks anyone with information to contact 101, quoting incident 7559/22AUG, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.