Hackney man admits park arson

Isaac Shozi, 50, of Bodney Road, Hackney, has pleaded guilty to arson in connection with several fires set in London Fields. The incidents took place on 15 August, a day after the government issued an emergency alert warning of heightened wildfire risks across the country.

Shozi admitted to starting the fires but denied a more serious charge of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. Prosecution barrister Justin Bearman told Wood Green Crown Court that the fires were set in parkland during a period of dry weather, posing a potential risk.

London Fields is an area of parkland owned by Hackney Council. The fires were set on 15 August, following a national emergency alert sent to millions of people on 14 August, advising against any activity that could start a fire due to a very high risk of wildfires.

Shozi was remanded in custody following the hearing at Wood Green Crown Court. A further hearing in the case is scheduled for 12 October.