A man has been charged with arson after allegedly starting ten fires in Hackney, east London, amid dry conditions. Isaac Shozi, 50, was arrested shortly after 5 a.m. on Saturday following multiple reports of fires in London Fields, near Lansdowne Drive.
Shozi was charged with arson, setting fires, and possession of a Class A drug. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Barkingside Magistrates' Court on Monday, August 17.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) extinguished the ten fires, which were all contained within London Fields. No injuries were reported.
Detective Superintendent Liz Cumber of the Metropolitan Police emphasized the dangers of starting fires, especially following recent hot weather and an increased risk of wildfires. "Even small fires can spread quickly and put people, buildings and open spaces at risk," Cumber stated.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that officers and the LFB responded to reports of a man starting fires. A man in his 50s was arrested at the scene. Later that day, Isaac Shozi was formally charged. The force urged the public to report any fire-starting behavior immediately by calling 999, noting that prompt reporting can help emergency services prevent serious harm.