Man Caught After Petrol-Soaked Rag Found in Iranian Diplomat’s Car Exhaust
A 60-year-old man has been sentenced after placing a petrol and diesel-soaked rag inside the exhaust pipe of an Iranian diplomatic vehicle. Sam Parsa, from Tottenham, was caught thanks to a vigilant member of the public who spotted the suspicious bottle and alerted nearby officers.
Flammable Bottle Spotted Near Iranian Embassy
On 6 September 2018, a passerby noticed a plastic bottle sticking out of the exhaust pipe of an unattended Iranian diplomatic car parked near the embassy in Knightsbridge. Inside was a rag soaked in a dangerously flammable petrol and diesel mix.
Nearby Territorial Support Group officers quickly removed the bottle, preventing what could have been a deadly explosion.
Counter Terrorism Investigation Uncovers the Culprit
Met Police’s Counter Terrorism Command launched a full investigation. Using DNA, CCTV footage, and mobile phone data, detectives traced the act back to Sam Parsa, who was in the area at the time. Tests confirmed the bottle could have ignited under certain conditions.
Parsa was arrested in November 2018 and charged in April 2020 with attempted arson with intent to endanger life.
Sentenced But Mental Health Considered
Found guilty in December 2020, Parsa was sentenced at the Old Bailey on 20 May to a Hospital Order under the Mental Health Act 1983, recognising his condition alongside his crime.
Police Urge Public Vigilance
“Parsa’s reckless actions could have endangered lives,” said Commander Richard Smith of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command. “I commend the member of the public who spotted the bottle and acted quickly to alert police, preventing a dangerous situation.”
“With lockdown easing, more people are out and about, which is good news. But some may exploit this for crime. Stay alert and report any suspicious activity immediately.”
If you see something suspicious, report it confidentially via the Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) website or call police on 0800 789 321.
