Tottenham Man Caught in Fiery Plot Near Iranian Embassy
Sam Parsa, 60, from High Road, Tottenham, was found guilty of attempted arson with intent to endanger life. The charge relates to a daring attack near the Iranian Embassy in Knightsbridge.
Public Spot Danger, Police Act Fast
On 6 September 2018, a sharp-eyed passerby noticed a plastic bottle sticking out of an Iranian diplomatic car’s exhaust pipe. Inside was a rag soaked in petrol and diesel—an explosive cocktail. The alert public member quickly called police, who swooped in and seized the bottle, stopping a potential disaster.
Investigation Zeroes in on Parsa
Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command cracked the case using DNA, mobile phone records, and CCTV footage. They tracked Parsa near the embassy at the exact time of the attempted arson.
“Parsa carried out a reckless act that could have endangered lives,” said Commander Richard Smith. “Thanks to the public’s vigilance and detective work, we acted swiftly to prevent harm.”
Parsa Arrested and Sentenced Soon
- Arrested on 28 November 2018 at his Tottenham home
- Digital devices seized during search
- Charged with attempted arson on 7 April 2020
- Remanded in custody and set for sentencing on 25 January 2021 at the Old Bailey
Commander Smith urged everyone to stay alert: “Report anything suspicious to police — your tip could stop the next attack.”
