Harry Owusu-Manu, 39, has been handed a life sentence for attempted murder after setting fire to his pregnant ex-partner’s flat in Battersea, South London.

The horrifying incident occurred in the early hours of April 25, 2023, when Owusu-Manu ignited a fire at his ex-partner’s home. The victim, who was hearing impaired and expecting a baby at the time, was inside the flat with her young daughter. Both were treated for smoke inhalation following the attack.

London Fire Brigade investigations determined that the fire was intentionally started, using a doormat as the ignition source.

Following a five-week trial at the Old Bailey, Owusu-Manu was found guilty of two counts of attempted murder, aggravated arson, religiously aggravated harassment, and possession of a lock knife in a public place on February 23.

Detective Constable Megan Gittins described Owusu-Manu’s actions as making his ex-partner’s life “a misery,” stating that he refused to accept the end of their relationship and resorted to causing her physical and mental harm.

Owusu-Manu attempted to conceal his crime by spray painting a CCTV camera black, but police were able to trace his movements from his residence in New Kent Road, Southwark, to the victim’s address. Dashcam footage retrieved from a van showed Owusu-Manu making his way to the victim’s flat and discarding the clothes he wore during the incident.

On May 3, Owusu-Manu was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 22 years at the Old Bailey.

The victim expressed her devastation, stating, “It was devastating that because of this man’s hatefulness I have lost so much that was dear to me.” She described the trauma of the night of the attack and the lasting impact it has had on her sense of security and safety.