Two men have been handed significant prison sentences for their involvement in a firebomb attack on a semi-detached property in Edinburgh, an act described by the High Court in Glasgow as being carried out under the direction of an organised crime figure based in Dubai. Richard Ordish, 19, and Kurtis Young, 42, both admitted to a charge of attempted murder in connection with the incident, which occurred in the early hours of 4 April 2025.
The court heard that Ordish and Young were captured on camera during the attack, which resulted in extensive damage to the residential property. Following the incident, the pair reportedly arrived at Young's partner's home, smelling of petrol, before making a phone call to the United Arab Emirates to confirm the 'job' had been completed. This communication was presented as evidence of the alleged instruction from a 'boss' overseas.
Judge Lord Arthurson condemned the attack as a "wholly murderous one" with a "very real threat to kill," highlighting the callous nature of the crime committed in a residential street while residents slept. He emphasised the public's contempt for such "despicable conduct," which he said necessitated high tariff sentences. Ordish received a seven-year prison sentence, while Young was given an 11-year term, with both men to be under supervision for four years upon release. Young's longer sentence reflected his "well developed criminal history" compared to Ordish, for whom young persons' sentencing guidelines applied.
The firebombing is linked to Operation Portaledge, a wider investigation into a surge of violence associated with organised crime gangs across central Scotland. Prosecutor Michael Macintosh detailed how Ordish and Young purchased fuel cans and used a motorbike to reach the target house. Macintosh stated that Ordish was on the bike while Young ignited an item and threw it through a ground-floor window, causing a "bright flash of light as the fire ignited." Footage of the attack was later reportedly posted online as part of a compilation of similar videos linked to a 'Tamo Junto' account, associated with promoting and celebrating fire-raisings and criminality related to Operation Portaledge.
The resulting fire required the mobilisation of five fire engines, ultimately spreading to both floors and causing a partial collapse of the roof. Rebuilding the property is estimated to cost GBP300,000, with an additional GBP60,000 required for repairs to the neighbouring semi-detached house. Defending Ordish, Jonny Campbell stated his client faced "significant degree of pressure" and was offered a "large financial incentive." Ewen Roy, representing Young, told the court his client became involved to pay off a drug debt following marital breakdown and the impact of the pandemic on his plumbing business, claiming Young was led to believe the target house would be unoccupied.