A former manager of an Indian restaurant has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison after he used a blonde wig as a disguise to set fire to his old eatery in a calculated revenge attack. Fakhrul Islam, aged 37, was captured on CCTV footage sporting golden locks as he walked towards Seventy One Indian in Poulton, Lancashire, before torching the premises in December 2024.
Revenge Motive Behind Blaze
The judge at Preston Crown Court described the fire as a 'revenge attack motivated by ill-feeling towards the restaurant's new owners'. Islam, who had previously worked at Seventy One Indian, carried out the arson in retaliation against the current proprietors. Images taken after the blaze reveal extensive damage, including scorched walls and ceilings, alongside ruined furniture.
Heroic Intervention Prevents Tragedy
The fire was only discovered after staff from the nearby Cube nightclub heard fire alarms, saw flames, and rushed to assist. Although the restaurant was empty at the time, employees from the business and a family living above the premises had to be helped to safety. Their quick actions were praised for potentially saving lives.
Painstaking Police Investigation
Islam was later identified following what police chiefs termed a 'painstaking investigation' that involved tracking CCTV footage and vehicle movements. Initially, Islam, of Hemingway, Blackpool, denied the arson, claiming he had been driving around while working as a taxi driver. However, he later pleaded guilty after investigators presented compelling evidence linking him to the crime.
Sentencing and Official Statements
Islam admitted to arson and was jailed for seven-and-a-half years at Preston Crown Court. Detective Constable Alexa Taylor of Blackpool CID commented: 'I welcome this sentence which reflects the gravity and reckless disregard for life that Islam showed that morning when he carried out this arson attack.' She added, 'I would also like to thank and acknowledge the heroic actions of the staff members from the Cube whose selfless and courageous intervention undoubtedly saved many lives during this incident.'
