London: A 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out at an Indian restaurant in east London, seriously injuring five people.

The Metropolitan Police said that the fire happened on Friday night at the Indian Aroma restaurant in Ilford. Three women and two men, believed to be customers, suffered burn injuries. They were treated at the scene by the London Ambulance Service and then taken to the hospital. Police said two of the victims, a man and a woman, are in critical condition.

"While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening," said Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers of the Met Police’s Central Specialist Crime north unit. He urged community members with information to come forward.

The suspects, arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, remain in police custody. Police said two further victims are believed to have left the scene before officers arrived, and efforts are underway to trace them.

The restaurant was badly damaged in the fire, and neighbours reported hearing loud screams as the blaze broke out. CCTV footage reportedly shows a group of people wearing face coverings entering the restaurant and pouring liquid on the floor before the flames spread.

The London Fire Brigade said firefighters rescued five people from the ground-floor restaurant, while nine others managed to escape. "We were called at 9.02 pm to reports of a fire. Flames damaged part of the ground-floor restaurant," a spokesperson said.

The London Ambulance Service said it sent multiple crews, including paramedics from its hazardous area response team. "We treated five people for burns and smoke inhalation. Two were taken to a major trauma centre and three others to local hospitals," it said.

Indian Aroma, managed by Rohit Kaluvala, describes itself as being dedicated to serving "authentic flavours of India" and is known for its award-winning cuisine.