A second suspect has been formally charged in connection with a series of arson attacks targeting properties linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as Metropolitan Police continue their investigation into what appears to be a coordinated campaign.
Stanislav Carpiuc, a 26-year-old Romanian national from Romford, faces charges of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life following his arrest at London Luton Airport on May 17.
The charges relate to three separate incidents that occurred within four days in North London: a vehicle fire in Kentish Town involving a car Starmer previously owned; a blaze at the Prime Minister’s private residence on the same street; and a fire at an Islington apartment building connected to Starmer. Prosecutors allege Carpiuc conspired with 21-year-old Roman Lavrynovych, who was charged last week with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life and remains in custody awaiting trial at the Old Bailey.
Police have since arrested a third man, aged 34, in Chelsea on suspicion of involvement in the alleged conspiracy, indicating the investigation is widening.
The fires caused property damage but no injuries, with the most serious incident damaging the entrance of Starmer’s former Kentish Town home, currently rented to his sister-in-law. Forensic teams continue examining evidence from all three scenes as counter-terrorism specialists assess potential motives behind the attacks.
The Legal Proceedings and Security Concerns
Carpiuc is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, while Lavrynovych maintains his innocence after denying charges during police questioning. The case has raised significant security concerns about threats to high-profile politicians, prompting reviews of protection measures for the Prime Minister’s family and associates.
The Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command is leading the complex investigation, which combines forensic analysis with international cooperation given the suspects’ transnational backgrounds.
The coming weeks will determine whether prosecutors can establish a clear motive and connection between the three suspects in this sort of mysterious case of politically-adjacent arson attacks.
