An Iraqi asylum seeker sparked terror by torching two taxpayer-funded hotels sheltering fellow refugees, a court has heard. Rawand Abdulrahman, 37, admitted to starting the fires but claims he never meant to put anyone’s life at risk.
Asylum Seeker Sets Fire Twice in Days
Abdulrahman struck twice within just over a week. First, he ignited beds at the Phoenix Hotel in North Weald, just five miles from Epping. Eight days later, he set fire to another room at the notorious Bell Hotel in Epping—both hotels housing asylum seekers on the public purse.
Major Damage But No Casualties
On March 28, 2025, the blaze at the Phoenix Hotel destroyed the entire left wing. Thanks to swift staff action, no one was hurt. After being relocated to the Bell Hotel, Abdulrahman struck again on April 5, torching beds and damaging the room and corridor. Luckily, the fire was contained quickly due to the layout of the building.
Admits Arson But Denies Endangering Lives
At Chelmsford Crown Court, prosecutor George Penny confirmed that both hotels exclusively housed refugees. Abdulrahman, who says he’s an Iraqi sheep farmer but whose claim cannot be verified, admitted setting the fires and accepting he intended or was reckless about causing property damage.
“He denies deliberately or recklessly endangering lives,” the court heard.
The case is ongoing as Abdulrahman faces serious charges for his dangerous acts.
