Two arrests after men suffer burns in Ilford tent fire

Emergency services rushed to a tent fire on wasteland by the North Circular in Ilford.

Two men were discovered with burns - one with critical injuries - after police were called at approximately 11.45pm on Tuesday, June 18.

They were taken to an East London hospital where one remains in a critical condition, while the second man's injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Around 25 firefighters worked to bring the fire under control by about 2am.

A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said: "Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended a tent fire on North Circular Road.

"A tent and a large area of wasteland were damaged from the fire, with the tent being completely destroyed. Two men were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.

"The Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that two further men have been arrested on suspicion of arson and attempted murder."

The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Brigade and police.

A spokesperson for the Met said: "Two men – no further details – were found suffering burns. Both have been taken to an east London hospital. One remains in a critical condition, the second man’s injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

"Two other men – no further details – have been arrested on suspicion of arson and attempted murder, both remain in custody at an east London police station.

"Enquiries into the circumstances remain ongoing."