Man Sets Two Elderly Worshippers on Fire in Shocking Attacks
Mohammed Abbkr, 29, a paranoid schizophrenic, has been hit with an indefinite hospital order after dousing two elderly mosque-goers in petrol and setting them alight. The attacks took place over 120 miles apart—in London and Birmingham—leaving 82-year-old Hashi Odowa and 70-year-old Mohammed Rayaz with horrific injuries and lasting trauma.
Brutal Blazes Outside Mosques
Abbkr targeted his victims as they were leaving mosques. He claimed he was controlled by “evil spirits” using magic. Both men suffered severe burns, with Mr Rayaz facing life-changing injuries including PTSD and depression. Eyewitnesses and family members described the terror as Abbkr approached wielding a petrol bottle and striking without mercy.
Indefinite Hospital Order After Guilty Verdict
Following his conviction for two counts of attempted murder at Birmingham Crown Court, Judge Melbourne Inman KC branded the attacks “horrific.” The judge acknowledged Abbkr’s severe mental illness but stressed he poses a serious public danger. Abbkr was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order, with release only possible if mental health assessments and the Secretary of State for Justice agree.
Victims Demand Answers
Mr Rayaz’s family slammed authorities, questioning why Abbkr remained in the country despite his mental health issues. They continue to struggle with the physical and psychological scars left by the attacks. The harrowing case raises tough questions about public safety and mental health support.
“Our officers recognised him from CCTV and arrested him the day after the Birmingham attack,” a police spokesperson said.
