Pair jailed over takeaway arson

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Two men have been jailed for an arson attack on an Indian takeaway which left the owner in "deep fear of his life".

Jason Morris, 32, was jailed for six years, and Paul Rees, 32, jailed for three-and-a-half years for the attack at the Chutney takeaway in Treharris.

Judge John Curran said the attack had not been racially motivated but was an "extremely serious matter".

Cardiff Crown Court heard how Morris poured petrol on owner Kabir Mohammed and threatened to set him alight.

The court heard Morris shouted at Mr Mohammed: "I'm going to burn you down, I'm going to kill you."

The consequences could have been dreadful Judge John Curran

Both men had been drinking before they carried out the attack in April this year.

The takeaway and an adjoining house were damaged in the blaze.

Prosecutor Roger Griffiths said: "Morris had been arguing with Mr Mohammed.

"After a prolonged drinking session he fetched the can of petrol from his company's van and poured it on the door of the shop.

"Rees went with him and lit the petrol while Morris threatened to set Mr Mohammed alight.

"Mr Mohammed managed to lock the door of the shop while Morris tried to kick his way in. Mr Mohammed was in deep fear of his life."

Morris and Rees, both of Treharris, both admitted arson being reckless as to life being endangered.

Morris also admitted attempting to inflict grievous bodily harm.

Jailing the pair, Judge John Curran said that although the attack appeared to be racial, the motivation was an argument between Morris and Mr Mohammed.

He said: "This is an extremely serious matter. The consequences could have been dreadful."