Ibrahim Alamin, 21, has been jailed for 40 months after starting a fire in his bedroom in Runcorn while two housemates were at home, an act that police say could have had devastating consequences.
Alamin contacted police at 4.17pm on Tuesday, June 30, stating he wanted to end his life and had set fire to his bedroom on Stonelea. Both Cheshire Police officers and fire crews were sent to the scene and arrived to find a small fire in a bedroom inside the property, which was quickly extinguished.
Arrest and investigation
Alamin was arrested at the scene and taken into custody. The two other people in the house were uninjured, the police force said. Firefighters confirmed the blaze was started deliberately and noted the fire alarm had been removed from the ceiling and wrapped in a bag.
Alamin, a Syrian national, previously pleaded guilty to arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered before appearing at Chester Crown Court on October 21, where he was sentenced.
Police reaction to sentencing
Following the sentencing, T/Detective Constable Galbraith said: "Not only did Alamin put his own life at risk, but he also put the lives of his housemates at risk, deliberately covering the smoke alarm in order to minimise the risk of the fire being detected."
Galbraith added: "While he eventually contacted police, the consequences of his actions could have been devastating. I would urge anyone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts to speak out, help is always available and you should never feel alone."
Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts is urged to visit spuk.org.uk or call 0800 587 0800.
