Wasim Iqbal, a 26-year-old Bolton resident previously convicted for causing the death of Bolton Mayoress Gay Wharton in 2020, has been sentenced to an additional four years and three months in prison for driving offences and drug-related charges.
The sequence of events leading to his latest arrest began on July 5, 2023, around 8.45 PM when officers from the Safer Roads Targeting Team (SRTT) acted on information from alert members of the public. The tip-off indicated that Iqbal, who was disqualified from driving, was spotted behind the wheel in Bolton.
Iqbal, released on license after the fatal incident involving Mayoress Wharton, was identified driving a grey BMW 3 Series. A pursuit ensued when officers in an unmarked police vehicle confirmed the presence of the suspected disqualified driver. The chase quickly escalated as Iqbal, in a bid to evade capture, sped through red lights and drove on the wrong side of the road.
The high-speed chase came to a dramatic end when Iqbal’s BMW collided with a bus. Thankfully, no passengers on the bus were injured. Following the crash, Iqbal attempted to flee on foot but was subsequently apprehended. He faced charges of driving whilst disqualified, dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.
During his recent sentencing at Bolton Crown Court on December 18, 2023, Iqbal pleaded guilty to these charges. PC Tom Berry and PC Matt Sale of the SRTT highlighted the recklessness of Iqbal’s actions, underscoring the potential for fatal consequences due to his disregard for the law and public safety.
The SRTT has praised the vigilance of the public in this case, acknowledging their crucial role in helping to apprehend unlicensed and uninsured drivers like Iqbal. The incident reinforces the importance of community involvement in maintaining road safety and the serious consequences of irresponsible driving behaviour.
