Protestor admits torching police van during Palestinian clash in Leeds

Hakam Ghaith, 29, was due to stand trial next month having denied wrongdoing in the November incident, but appeared at Leeds Crown Court again this week where he admitted arson reckless as to whether life was endangered.

During the brief hearing, prosecutor Ella Embleton-Brown said the admission was still not acceptable to the Crown, but would be considered and the case was adjourned until April 7 for an update.

Ghaith, of Sandhurst Terrace, Harehills,was remanded back into custody.

The charge relates to an incident which occurred in Leeds city centre on Saturday afternoon, November 1.

Emergency crews were called to Calverley Street at 2.33pm as the van blaze was started.

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Calverley Street was cordoned off between Great George Street and The Headrow, where the demonstration had been taking place that was thought to be in support of Palestine.

A witness who came across the scene said that there was a “huge police presence” of around 20 officers.

Fire crews extinguished the blaze and a man was arrested, police reported at the time.