Arsonist Sets Himself Ablaze in Failed Manchester Shop Attack

In a recent incident that has shocked the Manchester community, an arson attempt at a local convenience store took an unexpected turn when one of the perpetrators accidentally set himself on fire. The event, which occurred three days ago at Zaf's GoLocal store, was captured on CCTV and is now under investigation by the Greater Manchester Police.

According to the footage, three individuals entered the store and poured fuel on the floor, intending to start a fire. In a twist of fate, one of the men holding the petrol canister inadvertently ignited himself during the process. The video then shows the man struggling to extinguish the flames as he flees with his accomplices.

Zaf, the 39-year-old owner of the store, expressed his disbelief at the incident. "We're a big part of the community," he stated, highlighting the strong local support his business has received in the aftermath. The attack has left the community puzzled, as the store is well-known and respected in the area.

The incident caused approximately £15,000 worth of damage to the store, affecting the floor, ceiling, and refrigeration units. Fortunately, quick thinking by Zaf's brothers, who were working at the time, prevented the fire from spreading further. They used water from mop buckets in the stockroom to extinguish the flames rapidly.

Greater Manchester Police are treating the case as arson and are actively investigating to locate the three suspects. This incident underscores the serious nature of arson attacks, which are classified as criminal damage under UK law. Interestingly, statistics show that the majority of arson cases in the UK are committed by individuals under 18 years old.

The use of CCTV in this case demonstrates its crucial role in modern security and criminal investigations. Since the first modern CCTV system was installed in Germany in 1942, such technology has become invaluable for law enforcement and private businesses alike.

Corner shops like Zaf's GoLocal play a vital role in UK communities. With over 46,000 convenience stores across the country as of 2023, these businesses are often at the heart of local neighborhoods. The average UK convenience store employs about 10 people, highlighting their importance to local economies.

As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by small businesses and the importance of community support in times of crisis. The psychological impact of such attacks on victims and communities can be severe, making the strong show of support from local residents all the more significant.

"We're a well-known shop in the Manchester area, and we've got a lot of love out there, and we don't know what could have caused it. I'm just shocked."

This event in Manchester, a city with a rich industrial heritage and a population of approximately 547,000, has brought together local residents in support of a valued community business. As authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice, the resilience of Zaf's GoLocal and the surrounding community stands as a testament to the strength of local bonds in the face of adversity.