The Internal Security Forces detained a Lebanese man on June 25, 2026, after he set fire to his home in the Sabra area of Tariq El Jdideh and attacked neighbors, following negotiations that lasted over 12 hours.
The General Directorate of the Internal Security Forces – Public Relations Division stated in a release that the man, identified as M. H. (born 1997), ignited a fire in his residence located in Sabra, falling under the jurisdiction of the Tariq El Jdideh precinct in the Beirut Police Unit, posing a danger to himself and public safety.
A patrol from the precinct quickly arrived at the scene, discovering the apartment engulfed in flames. Civil defense forces, Beirut Fire Brigade, and a special unit from the judicial police comprised of a negotiation team and tactical intervention force were also dispatched to the scene.
Under directives from the competent judiciary, the apartment door was forcibly opened, allowing entry to extinguish the fire by the Beirut Fire Brigade.
The statement noted that the area was cordoned off, the building's perimeter secured, and necessary safety measures implemented. Negotiations with the man ensued, aiming to calm him and prevent further danger to his life and others', lasting more than 12 hours.
During this time, the suspect attempted to use a knife and hammer and threw glass at officers to keep them at bay, which caused minor injuries to several officers before he was subdued and arrested.
Legal procedures were carried out against the detainee as per the competent judiciary's instructions.