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A 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man have been arrested after a fire at a restaurant in Gants Hill, Ilford, which has left three people in a life-threatening condition, according to the Metropolitan Police. Emergency services were called to Indian Aroma in Woodford Avenue at about 9pm on Friday (August 22).

Five people, three women and two men, were injured in the incident. Scotland Yard said on Sunday (August 24) that two of them, a man and a woman, remain in a life-threatening condition. The force also believes there are two further victims who left the scene before officers arrived.

Scotland Yard said the boy and man were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and they remain in police custody.

Det Ch Insp Mark Rogers from 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."

CCTV footage posted on social media appeared to show a group of people with their faces covered walk into the restaurant before pouring liquid onto the floor. Seconds later, the inside of the restaurant was engulfed in flames.

The footage also appeared to show a man running out of the building with his clothing on fire.

Anyone with information should contact the Met via 101, quoting 7559/22AUG. If you wish to remain anonymous, speak to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.