Officers swooped on 13 addresses as part of the investigation into the attempted murder of Michael Webb, who was doused in petrol and set alight on the doorstep of his home in Annandale Crescent, Hartlepool on August 5.



Mr Webb, 38, remains in the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, where he has since had two fingers amputated.

He is now able to talk to officers, who say they are committed to solving the crime.

Man set on fire: Hartlepool Mail, August 5 >>
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Detective Superintendent Gordon Lang, who is leading the investigation, said: "This operation is part of an ongoing investigation into the attempted murder of Michael Webb. He is still in hospital and he is still very poorly, but he is now talking to the police.

"Horrific injuries were caused and he has already lost two fingers.

"There was more than 50 police officers involved in the raids at 13 addresses in Hartlepool.

"Police were not armed and did not use dogs. They are search-trained officers."

Det Supt Lang said nobody was arrested during the raids, which continued throughout the day yesterday.

He also appealed for people to get in contact if they know anything.

"The investigation is very much alive and we urge people to come forward with any information they may have," said Det Supt Lang.

The Mail previously reported how shocked neighbours described how they had seen what they thought was water being poured over Mr Webb as he stood on his doorstep.

But the victim burst into flames with temperatures at the house topping 250 degrees centigrade.

A young boy also had to be rushed out of an adjoining house.

A second man, who went to Mr Webb's aid, was taken to the hospital with leg injuries after jumping from a first floor window at the house.

A 34-year-old Hartlepool man was arrested shortly after the incident and questioned on suspicion of attempted murder before being bailed, pending further inquiries.

A 29-year-old man, also from the town, who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, was earlier released by police without charge.

Anyone with information should contact police on (01642) 302126.