A 65-year-old man has admitted to hurling a petrol bomb at a London hotel that was housing up to 500 asylum seekers. Mark Neville, wearing a balaclava, was captured on CCTV lighting and throwing the handmade device at the Thistle City Barbican Hotel in Islington on September 25 of last year. The improvised firebomb detonated near bins and was extinguished by security guards.
Detectives tracked Neville using CCTV, leading them to his flat. Residents' assistance and forensic evidence, including Neville's DNA found on glass fragments from the device and on a glove in a nearby bin, linked him to the attack. The glove also contained trace amounts of the flammable chemical used in the bomb. Police searches of his residence uncovered internet searches and messages related to far-right activists, migration, and asylum seekers, leading investigators to conclude he was motivated by hatred and anger towards immigration.
Neville was arrested two days after the incident. While he initially denied throwing the bomb, he later confessed upon being shown the CCTV footage, stating, “Go on then, f*** it, it was me.” He admitted to attending anti-migrant protests, including one outside the hotel and others organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. During a court proceeding, it was noted that Neville had previously expressed negative sentiments about asylum seekers, complaining they were taking jobs and making him sick.
Neville pleaded guilty at Snaresbrook Crown Court to attempted arson with intent to endanger life, possession of a lock knife, and possession of a prohibited weapon. He is currently in custody awaiting sentencing. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley of the Metropolitan Police stated that Neville's actions were intended to terrorize residents and could have resulted in severe injuries. He added that the police are committed to protecting Londoners and pursuing those who cause fear and harm.
The Thistle City Barbican Hotel was previously the site of significant protests in August 2025, involving clashes between anti-migrant demonstrators and anti-racism activists. Protesters against the use of the hotel for asylum seekers chanted slogans, while a counter-protest organized by groups including Stand Up To Racism drew support from figures like former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Police intervened to separate the groups, making nine arrests on that day. Migrants inside the hotel were observed filming and observing the confrontations. The hotel is no longer being used to house migrants.