An individual described as seeking attention brought a hammer, a hatchet, and a kitchen knife to a school, resulting in a two-year jail sentence. Both Douk Deng, a 21-year-old South Sudanese national, was apprehended by workmen at Edgar Wood Academy in Heywood, Greater Manchester on August 6 last year.
Prior to his arrest, a member of the public alerted authorities after observing Deng behaving strangely while carrying a petrol can with a hammer attached to his belt on his way to the secondary school. Deng was seen mumbling as he circled the school, which was closed for the summer, before approaching it. Builders on site became alarmed and contacted the police.
Deng was stopped as he attempted to leave the premises and was captured on CCTV footage kicking over a traffic cone and showing aggressive behavior towards road signs. He was also seen holding the petrol can and waving at the workmen inside the school. Police arrived, and bodycam footage depicted Deng being restrained after a struggle.
During the trial, it was revealed that Deng, an asylum seeker, felt increasingly frustrated with the lack of assistance from immigration authorities regarding his stay and work in the UK. He aimed to draw attention to his situation, as he had been denied asylum three times. In addition to the hammer and hatchet, he was found in possession of a kitchen knife and a jerry can with petrol.
Reportedly, Deng had displayed odd behavior at another school the day before, damaging property. His defense lawyer stated that his actions were not intended to harm anyone but were a result of distress from leaving Sudan under traumatic circumstances.
Despite his mental health being evaluated with no major issues identified, Deng pleaded guilty to various offenses, including possessing weapons in a public place and on school premises. He received a two-year prison sentence with the requirement to serve half the term in custody and the rest on license.
The judge emphasized that while she couldn’t influence the Home Office, they should address Deng’s status as a failed asylum seeker. Police, after thorough investigation, found no specific motive or intent behind Deng’s actions. Chief Superintendent Helen Caldbeck commended the officers for their swift response in handling the situation, ensuring public safety.
