Suspected police-van arsonist from Leeds pro-Palestine gathering held on remand
A Leeds man accused of torching a police van during a demonstration in Leeds city centre at the weekend has been held on remand.
Hakam Ghaith appeared at Leeds Magistrates’ Court where he was taken into custody.
The 29-year-old, of Sandhurst Terrace, Harehills, is charged with arson, reckless as to whether life was endangered.
He did not enter plea, but will be held in prison until his next appearance, which will be at Leeds Crown Court on December 1 for a plea and trial-preparation hearing.
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 blaze was started.
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.