Man armed with petrol threatened to ‘set himself on fire’ at town hall

Kamran Dervishi, 28, is believed to have gone to the town hall after earlier threats were made to members of staff.

He was dealt with by both council staff and police before being brough before Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court this week to be sentenced.

A Bolton Council spokesperson said: “All council staff have the right to work in a safe environment, and this sentence sends a clear message that violent behaviour will never be tolerated. 

“We fully understand that some council service users are experiencing personal difficulties, but anyone resorting to abuse, threats or attacks against staff will face consequences for their actions. 

The case was heard at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court (Image: Newsquest) “We commend the brave Bolton Council staff who intervened, and the rapid response from Greater Manchester Police, without which this incident could have resulted in serious injury or worse.” 

It is understood that Dervishi was tackled by security staff who prevented him from doing any damage and that the police were called to arrest him.

Court documents show that he was charged with threats to damage or destroy property, contrary to sections 2(a) and 4 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971.

Dervishi threatened to set himself on fire at Bolton Town Hall (Image: Anthony Moss) They say he “without lawful excuse, threatened to set yourself on fire that would cause damage to property belonging to another, intending that he would fear that the threat would be carried out.” 

Dervishi, of no fixed abode, indicated a guilty plea and was convicted when brought before the magistrates court on Wednesday January 22.

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The case was adjourned for a pre-sentence report to be completed and according to court documents Dervishi was remanded into custody. 

The documents say that he was remanded because of the “nature and seriousness” of his offence, because he had made threats and because he had struggled to find accommodation.

They also back up that he had threatened to “set himself on fire” and had attended the incident “with petrol.”

Dervishi was brought back to Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court on Wednesday February 12 to be sentenced and was jailed for 12 months. 

Source – INDIA TV