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In a shocking revelation, a court has uncovered that a Russian-speaking figure operating under the alias “El Money” orchestrated a series of arson attacks against properties linked to Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister. The attacks, intended to instil fear and chaos, were carried out by two men recruited through a Telegram account. This troubling incident has raised alarm over foreign interference in British politics and the safety of public figures.
The Arson Plot Unraveled
Roman Lavrynovych, a 22-year-old Ukrainian builder, and Stanislav Carpiuc, aged 27, were found guilty by a jury at the Old Bailey of conspiring to cause criminal damage stemming from the arson incidents that took place in May 2025. The court heard that the attacks were initiated on 8 May when a Toyota Rav4, once owned by Starmer, was deliberately set ablaze in Kentish Town, north London.
Within a few days, Lavrynovych targeted another property associated with Starmer, igniting a fire at the entrance to a block of flats where the Prime Minister had previously resided. At the time, Starmer’s sister-in-law was asleep inside with her family, raising serious concerns about their safety as Lavrynovych set fire to the doorway, potentially trapping them inside.
The Role of ‘El Money’
The Telegram account known as “El Money” promised Lavrynovych £3,000 in cryptocurrency to record the fires and ensure they gained media attention. This online orchestrator’s identity remains shrouded in mystery, but the investigations suggest potential ties to high-ranking officials in Moscow. However, Counter Terrorism Policing has stated that there is currently no evidence to label “El Money” as a direct state threat.
Commander Helen Flanagan, who leads Counter Terrorism Policing in London, emphasised that the intent behind the arson was to instigate fear, yet she noted that the defendants appeared primarily motivated by financial gain rather than any ideological agenda. “The intention was clearly to take payment, and to carry out a crime for money,” Flanagan remarked, reaffirming the need for vigilance in the face of such threats.
Responses from Political Leaders
Following the convictions, various political figures condemned the attacks. A government spokesperson labelled the actions as “abhorrent” and extended gratitude to law enforcement and the Crown Prosecution Service for their efforts in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch asserted that regardless of political differences, no public official should endure intimidation or threats. She stated, “Democracy is settled at the ballot box, not through fear or violence,” highlighting a growing concern about the implications of such attacks on the political landscape.
The court heard harrowing accounts from victims, including Judith Alexander, Starmer’s sister-in-law, who recounted being awakened by the sounds of the fire. “I heard two bangs… it sounded like two wheelie bins had been thrown at the door,” she described, vividly illustrating the panic that ensued as thick smoke engulfed the property.
The Investigation and Aftermath
As the investigation progressed, Lavrynovych attempted to involve another individual, Petro Pochynok, in filming the arson, believing that it would further escalate the situation. Pochynok, however, distanced himself from the plan, claiming ignorance of the details until it was too late. The police apprehended Lavrynovych on 15 May, while Carpiuc was intercepted at Luton Airport attempting to flee to Romania.
In court, Lavrynovych admitted to starting the fire but claimed he was coerced by “El Money”, indicating that the true nature of this mysterious figure remains a subject of concern. The defendant alleged that “El Money” had prior connections that hinted at political influence, which could suggest a broader network intent on inciting unrest.
Why it Matters
This case underscores a critical intersection of crime, politics, and potential foreign influence within the UK. The deliberate targeting of properties associated with a sitting Prime Minister raises profound questions about the security of public figures and the integrity of political discourse in Britain. As the ramifications of these attacks reverberate through the political landscape, it is imperative that authorities remain vigilant against attempts to undermine democracy through fear and intimidation. Such criminal acts not only threaten individual safety but also challenge the foundational principles of a free society.
