Irfaan Ismael, 30, Jailed for 11 Years for Samurai Sword Attack on Officer in Blackburn

Irfaan Ismael, 30, of Warrington Street, Blackburn, was sentenced to 11 years in prison at Preston Crown Court following a samurai sword attack on officer.

On March 7 Irfaan Ismael had been seen with a sword in Buncer Lane, Blackburn, following which police was informed.



An officer attended the scene and found the man, asking him to stop, but he turned and drew the sword from his waist, lunging at the officer.



Officer attempt to stun him with taser but it failed, upon which Ismail started chasing officer down the street.



A second attempt to stun him failed, the officer subdued Ismael at the third attempt using the taser and arrested him with the help from members of the public.



Ismael pleaded guilty to affray, possessing an offensive weapon and possessing ammunition, but contested the attempted wounding charge and was sentenced to 11 years in prison at Preston Crown Court.



Det Con Paul Fitzer, of Blackburn Police, said: “The police are here to help people but the sad fact is we are often prevented from doing so by people who seek to physically attack us.



“It was only the quick-thinking actions of the constable which prevented him from being seriously injured.



“We must also thank several members of the public who helped the officer in detaining Ismael, during wha