A MAN who “popped” the eye of a close friend with a wheel brace during a fight, has been jailed for 10 years.

Mohammed Jangeer, 39, attacked Mohammed Rizak, on April 26, 2011, in Longton Street, Blackburn, following a drink and drug-fuelled argument.

Preston Crown Court this morning heard that Mr Rizak, 40, headbutted Jangeer moments before he went to his car to find the metal wheel brace.

Despite emergency surgery, the victim’s eye could not be saved and had to be removed.

Jangeer, of Tremellen Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to section 18 wounding in November. When sentencing, Judge Jonathan Gibson said he found Jangeer to be a dangerous offender, based on his previous convictions for violent crimes, all linked to the consumption of alcohol.

Det Insp Mark Winstanley, from Blackburn CID, said: “Jangeer’s victim was subjected to a violent assault that has left him with life changing injuries.

“He was left unconscious on the floor – Jangeer showed no compassion for his friend and fled the scene without calling for medical assistance.

“The level of violence used by Jangeer during this attack was shocking, particularly given that the victim was a friend of his.

“The fact that he has received such a substantial sentence should give the victim some reassurance and I hope it deters others from engaging in acts of violence on the streets of Blackburn.”