Thankfully, no injuries have been reported. However, nearby residents were evacuated as a safety step while firefighters worked to control the fire. The situation was later brought under control.
Police officers from the Metropolitan Police remain at the scene and have started an investigation. So far, no arrests have been made.
Police response and investigation
Police Superintendent Sarah Jackson said the incident is deeply worrying and has caused fear among local people. Officers are carrying out urgent checks and are also increasing patrols in the area to reassure residents.
Investigators are trying to find out how the fire started and whether it was a planned attack. Early signs suggest it could be linked to hate crime, but officials say all possibilities are being examined.