CCTV images from a Hindu temple damaged by fire in an apparent arson attack have been acquired by the Gazette.
A hooded figure emerges from the shadows at the front of the Adhya Shakti Mataji Temple in Cowley High Road carrying what appears to be a metal can.
Despite the rain spattering the lens, it is clear to see the person pause for a few moments next to a portable building.
The time stamp on the video puts it at 11.27pm on Monday, May 27 - the bank holiday Monday - but it is an hour out, and the attack actually happened in the early hours of the following day. The figure stands motionless, slightly bent forward, for several seconds, then walks back around the corner of the building carrying the object.
Returning moments later and walking slowly, the intruder appears to fumble with something, then there is a flare of light in the person's hands. The intruder is then seen to throw something but nothing happens.
The figure steps closer to where they paused before, partly obscured by a pillar, and there is another brief flare of light before the attacker reaches out to toss a burning object, probably a match. There is a bright flash of flame and the intruder turns and runs.
No arrests have been made and police are asking for anyone who thinks they may know the person in the CCTV to get in touch.
Detective Chief Inspector Richard Turner of Hillingdon police, who is leading the inquiry, said: "From our initial enquiries it would appear that the intended building in this arson was the portable building outside the Hindu temple rather than the temple itself.
"Nevertheless this is still an extremely serious incident which could have resulted in a fatality and we would urge anyone with any information about this crime to contact Hillingdon police's Community Safety Unit on 020 8246 1766 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
