Arsonist Convicted in Plot Targeting Keir Starmer Deported from UK

Stanislav Carpiuc, a 28-year-old convicted arsonist involved in a plot to firebomb the home of Sir Keir Starmer and other properties, has been deported from Britain. Carpiuc, a Romanian national, was sentenced to two years for conspiring with others to damage property by fire.

Carpiuc and Roman Lavrynovych, 21, were allegedly hired as "pawns" by a Russian figure known only as "El Money" for a series of attacks in May 2025. The plot involved setting fire to Starmer's constituency home, a flat linked to the Labour MP, and a Toyota RAV4 previously owned by Starmer. During the attacks on Starmer's property, his sister-in-law, Judith Alexander, and her nine-year-old child were present, leading to fears for their safety.

Carpiuc was offered cash to put up posters promoting anti-immigration sentiment before being involved in the arson plot. Instructions for the attacks were issued via the encrypted Telegram app. A BBC investigation later linked the "El Money" Telegram account to the son of a senior Russian official, identified as 23-year-old Evgeny Lyukshin, who is described as a diplomat trained in propaganda warfare. Lyukshin's father is reportedly a senior Russian diplomat with access to sensitive NATO and CIA documents.

Lavrynovych carried out the actual arson attacks, including setting fire to the Toyota RAV4 on May 8, 2025, and later firebombing the Islington flat and Starmer's constituency home. Carpiuc encouraged Lavrynovych through communications and attempted to collect payments, with the judge noting that Carpiuc "knew exactly what was planned." Carpiuc did not participate directly in the first arson but introduced Lavrynovych to another individual, Petro Pochynok, who was later acquitted.

Lavrynovych was sentenced to seven years in prison for his role. Carpiuc received a two-year sentence, with the judge acknowledging he had no previous convictions and provided a truthful account to the police. The court also noted Carpiuc did not seek a significant financial reward, was promised no more than £100, and was partly motivated by a desire to help Lavrynovych raise money for his father's medical treatment.

Carpiuc was arrested at Luton Airport and remanded in custody. Following his sentencing in June 2025, he has now been deported. A Home Office spokesperson stated that the conviction and imprisonment send a clear message to those lured by money from strangers, emphasizing that they will be caught and face severe consequences.