Isaac Shozi charged with arson after ten London Fields fires
Hackney man to appear at Barkingside Magistrates' Court on 19 August 2026 following early-morning blaze
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A Hackney man has been charged with arson after starting around ten fires in London Fields early on Saturday. Isaac Shozi, 50, of Bodney Road, was arrested following reports of multiple blazes near Lansdowne Drive at about 05:00 BST.
The London Fire Brigade responded to the scene and extinguished the fires without any injuries. Metropolitan Police confirmed Shozi was charged with arson and will appear at Barkingside Magistrates' Court on 19 August 2026.
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Heightened wildfire risk amid record heat
The arrest comes as authorities warn of extreme wildfire risk across England and Wales. The UK recorded its highest temperature of the year on 14 August 2026, reaching 38.1°C at Kew Gardens, as reported by the Met Office.
Detective Superintendent Liz Cumber of the Metropolitan Police said the force takes such incidents seriously. "No one can be in any doubt about the dangers of starting fires, particularly following the recent hot weather and heightened risk of wildfires," she said, as reported by the BBC.
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Cumber added that even small fires can spread rapidly, endangering people, buildings, and open spaces. The National Fire Chiefs Council reported over 1,000 wildfires in England and Wales so far this year, matching last year’s record total.
No one can be in any doubt about the dangers of starting fires, particularly following the recent hot weather and heightened risk of wildfires.
Detective Superintendent Liz Cumber, Metropolitan Police
What happens next
Shozi remains in custody and is scheduled to appear at Barkingside Magistrates' Court on 19 August 2026. The Metropolitan Police have urged the public to report any suspicious behaviour or fires immediately by calling 999.
The government issued a national wildfire alert on 13 August 2026, warning against activities that could spark fires, including disposable barbecues and campfires. The alert was sent to millions of mobile devices across the UK.
Questions this report answers
+Who was charged with starting the fires in London Fields?
Isaac Shozi, 50, of Bodney Road, Hackney, was charged with arson after starting around ten fires in London Fields on 16 August 2026. He is due to appear at Barkingside Magistrates' Court on 19 August 2026.
+How many fires were started in London Fields?
Around ten fires were reported in London Fields near Lansdowne Drive on 16 August 2026. The London Fire Brigade extinguished them without any injuries, as confirmed by the Metropolitan Police.
+What is the wildfire risk in London currently?
Authorities warn of a very high wildfire risk due to recent record temperatures. The UK recorded 38.1°C at Kew Gardens on 14 August 2026, increasing the danger of fires spreading rapidly in dry conditions.
+What should residents do if they see a fire starting?
The Metropolitan Police urge anyone who witnesses a fire or suspicious behaviour to call 999 immediately. Even small fires can spread quickly, posing risks to people and property.
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