A teenager has been arrested after a synagogue was defaced with swastikas in northwest London.

Police were alerted to reports of a male spraying swastikas on the walls of a synagogue in Belsize Square, Camden, at about 7.40pm on Saturday.

Officers arrived soon after and began looking for the suspect.

They found a 16-year-old boy nearby shortly after 8pm and arrested him on suspicion of religiously aggravated criminal damage.

He has been taken into custody.

Police said they also found other swastikas sprayed on walls in the surrounding area.

Scotland Yard said an investigation is under way to determine if the same person is responsible.

Anyone who has information about the incident can call police on 101, giving the reference 6604/30OCT. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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