Teenager who sprayed Bristol Costco shoppers with a home-made irritant spared jail
Romeo Dumbi pleaded guilty to administering a noxious substance
A teenager from North Somerset has received a suspended prison sentence after causing panic at a Costco in Bristol by spraying shoppers with a home-made irritant.
Romeo Dumbi, now 18, created chaos when he unleashed the substance in February 2025, leaving himself and nine others needing immediate medical treatment.
In Bristol Crown Court hearings, Dumbi pleaded guilty to four counts of administering a noxious substance, leading to his 16-month sentence being suspended for two years.
The incident prompted a swift response from police, fire, and ambulance services, with the store facing a temporary closure due to safety concerns.
Further investigation revealed Dumbi's filmed preparation of the irritant with legally sourced ingredients and unsettling online searches related to violent activity.
In addition to the suspended sentence, Dumbi must comply with a 28-day rehabilitation programme and wear an electronic tag for monitoring.
The court has also imposed a five-year Serious Crime Prevention Order, significantly restricting his internet access and enabling police inspections.
Detective Sergeant Mike Coleman expressed appreciation to those who restrained Dumbi during the incident and highlighted the comprehensive measures enforced to mitigate potential risks.
Coleman emphasised the gravity of breaches to the order, which could lead to substantial prison time.