Suspected police-van arsonist in pro-Palestine Leeds demonstration to undergo psychiatric testing
A man accused of setting fire to a police van during a city-centre demonstration is to undergo testing to decide if he can stand trial.
Hakam Ghaith is charged with arson, reckless as to whether life was endangered, and criminal damage.
The van was torched during a pro-Palestine gathering in early November.
Ghaith appeared at Leeds Crown Court today via video link from HMP Leeds, where he is being held on remand, and was due to enter pleas.
But the court heard that the 29-year-old is still to be assessed by a psychiatrist to determine his mental state.
The case was adjourned until January 26 when the results of that report will be considered.
If he is found fit, he could be asked to enter pleas that day. Should he plead not-guilty, a trial date has been set for April 28 next year.
Ghaith, of Sandhurst Terrace, Harehills, was remanded back into custody following today’s 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.