Arsonist used blonde wig as disguise in 'revenge attack' on former Poulton workplace
A former restaurant boss who set fire to a Poulton restaurant in a revenge attack against its new owners has been jailed.
Fakhrul Islam torched Seventy One Indian on Breck Road in the early hours of December 8, 2024, causing extensive damage and forcing the business to close until this week.
Although the restaurant was empty at the time, staff members from the business and a family living above the premises had to be helped to safety after nearby nightclub workers spotted the blaze.
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Staff from Cube nightclub heard fire alarms, saw flames and rushed to assist.
Islam, who wore a blond wig in an attempt to disguise himself, was later identified following what police described as a painstaking investigation tracking CCTV footage and vehicle movements.
The 37-year-old, of Hemingway, Blackpool, initially denied the offence, claiming he had been driving around while working as a taxi driver.
However, he later pleaded guilty to arson after investigators presented the evidence.
At Preston Crown Court earlier this week, Islam was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison.
During sentencing, the judge described the fire as a revenge attack motivated by ill-feeling towards the restaurant’s new owners.
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Detective Constable Alexa Taylor, of Blackpool CID, said: “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.
“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.”