London Restaurant Blaze: Police Probe Arson Attack at Indian Aroma
A suspected arson at Indian Aroma in Gants Hill left multiple diners injured, with two critically ill. Police arrested two suspects, while firefighters and investigators continue probing the cause of the destructive blaze.
London witnessed a horrifying episode on Friday evening when a suspected arson attack engulfed the popular Indian Aroma restaurant in Gants Hill, leaving several diners injured and many others shaken. Authorities confirmed that at least five people sustained injuries, while two arrests have already been made in connection with the incident.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Roger stated that a teenager and a 54-year-old man were taken into custody on suspicion of deliberately setting fire inside the restaurant. The calamity unfolded at around 9 pm (GMT), just as the establishment was bustling with patrons.
CCTV footage revealed a chilling sequence: three masked assailants entered the premises, splashed an unknown liquid onto the floor, and ignited it, causing flames to surge rapidly. Within moments, the once-lively dining hall transformed into a scene of pandemonium, as guests and staff scrambled to flee the blaze. Another video from outside showed a man running out with his clothes ablaze, an image that onlookers described as terrifying and surreal.
Several Injured
Among the victims were at least three women and two men, most of whom suffered burns. Emergency responders from the London Ambulance Service rushed to the site, treating individuals before transferring them to hospital facilities. Police confirmed that a man and a woman remain in critical, life-threatening condition. Officers are also working to trace two additional victims who reportedly left the restaurant before emergency teams arrived.
Firefighters battled the inferno for nearly 90 minutes before it was subdued. Witness Dina Michael recalled the ordeal vividly, saying, “I turned around and see some guy running like a fireball. He was fully on fire. One of my friends came with a water bucket, and we were just trying to put the fire down.”
Arrests and Investigations
Both suspects remain in custody, and investigators continue to reconstruct the sequence of events with urgency. “While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at a pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening,” said Detective Rogers from the Met Police’s Central Specialist Crime unt. He urged community members to assist with any available information.
❗️Indian Restaurant FIREBOMBED in "Arson Attack" - 🏴 CCTV Shows Man Fleeing ON FIRE!
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) August 24, 2025
A suspected arson attack at Indian Aroma in Ilford - near London - has left three people fighting for their lives. Footage from the scene shows a group, with their faces covered, pouring liquid… pic.twitter.com/P588q3xScM
Fire Brigade Statement
The London Fire Brigade confirmed receiving an emergency call at 9:02 pm. Their spokesperson reported that part of the ground floor was severely damaged. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, rescued five individuals, while nine others managed to escape unaided. The brigade has launched its own inquiry to determine the root cause of the conflagration.
About the Restaurant
Indian Aroma, overseen by manager Rohit Kaluvala, has built its reputation on delivering “authentic flavours of India.” Known for its award-winning curries and exemplary hospitality, the restaurant often attracts movie executives, cultural delegations, and charity groups.
