Mon Aug 25 03:41:44 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
An Indian restaurant, Indian Aroma, in east London was severely damaged by a fire on Friday night, August 22, 2025. Five people suffered burn injuries and smoke inhalation and were hospitalized, two in life-threatening condition. Police have arrested a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Investigations are ongoing, with police seeking two additional potential victims and looking into CCTV footage suggesting the fire was deliberately started with a flammable liquid. The restaurant is known for serving authentic Indian cuisine and has been a popular choice for various events and clientele.
**News Article:**
**Arson Suspected in London Indian Restaurant Fire; Five Injured**
**London – August 25, 2025** – A popular Indian restaurant in east London, Indian Aroma, was engulfed in flames on Friday night, leaving five people seriously injured. Police have arrested a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, following the incident at the restaurant in Ilford.
Emergency services were called to the scene on Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill, where they found three women and two men suffering from burn injuries and smoke inhalation. All five were taken to the hospital, with two individuals reported to be in a life-threatening condition.
“While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening,” stated Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers of the Met Police.
Authorities are also searching for two additional individuals believed to have left the scene before emergency responders arrived. Reports suggest CCTV footage shows individuals wearing face coverings entering the restaurant and pouring liquid on the floor before the blaze erupted.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that the restaurant sustained extensive damage. “Part of the ground-floor restaurant was damaged by fire,” a spokesperson said. “Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued five people from the restaurant.”
Indian Aroma, managed by Rohit Kaluvala, is known for its authentic Indian cuisine and has been a favourite for movie executives, film crews, and various cultural and business events. The restaurant’s website highlights its commitment to first-rate customer service and high-quality, distinctive Indian cuisine.
The Metropolitan Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 