
Chief Superintendent Mike Colbourne of Bedfordshire Police presented three brave members of the public with Commendations today for their bravery and community spirit. We are extremely proud to say that one of these men, Mohammed Azad, is a vibrant and hard working volunteer for the SOS Bus Luton!
At 0050 on Saturday 5 June 2010, eleven people were involved in a large fight that broke out in Manchester Street, which is in the centre of Luton’s busy night time economy. At that time of night the town was busy with people visiting pubs and clubs.
Ade Ige and Robbie Dunsby, two taxi marshals who were working nearby, together with SOS Bus volunteer, Mohammed Azad, immediately tried to calm the situation. Police were called but were unable to attend immediately.
Until officers arrived, Ade, Robbie and Mohammed tried to separate two very violent groups. One man produced a hammer and began threatening other people, striking another man in the face. Despite being very aware of the weapon being used, Ade, Robbie and Mohammed continued to work at calming the situation and split up the groups in the hope of preventing others from becoming injured.
When police arrived, the man with the hammer made off with Ade and Robbie discretely following him, watching where he hid the weapon. They passed this information to police officers and the man, together with two others, was later arrested.
Due to their courageous actions and support they have given the police one man has been charged with affray and another charged with affray and possession of a deadly weapon.
From all the SOS Bus team we would like to say congratulations! PHOTOS TO FOLLOW!
Mohammed Azad