Four charged with explosives offences after discovery in London, Ontario
Police in London, Ontario, Canada, have laid additional charges on four men during an investigation after the discovery of firearms and dangerous chemicals - allegedly capable of making explosives - earlier this week at a residence in the city's northwest end.
The London Police Service said on Tuesday 27 January that the chemicals were located in the University Heights neighbourhood west of campus. The probe was prompted after a trespassing call on Western University's campus over the weekend, leading officers to the home at 212 Chesham Place.
On Thursday, police released updated information saying all four people involved in the case have been charged for unlawful possession of explosives.
"Although we do not have an exact timeline at this stage, as the investigation progresses, residents can expect to see a police presence on Chesham Avenue for an extended period of time," police said in a statement.
Jerry Tong, 27, of Ottawa, was initially charged with six offences, including carrying a concealed weapon, careless use of a firearm, possessing a loaded regulated firearm, resisting arrest, break and enter with intent and occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm. He's now facing additional charges for unlawful possession of explosives, as well as 26-year-old Zekun Wang of London, who was also initially charged with break and enter with intent and occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm. Fei (Frank) Han, 25, of London and Feiyang (Astrid) Ji, 21, of London were each charged with unlawful possession of explosives.
Drug lab not suspected
Speaking with reporters at the scene on Tuesday, Sean Travis, acting detective superintendent with London police, said observations were made in the home that "created concern about chemicals that could be used to create explosive devices, not that devices were located".
"That isn't the sole source of explanation for the presence of these chemicals, but they are to be treated in a way that handling them is important for the safety of all involved, which includes the emergency personnel that's present, as well as the surrounding community."
Travis said police could not confirm if there were any concerning messages or letters found in the home, as the investigation is underway, but confirmed a drug lab is not suspected. He said he wasn't aware whether anything had been stolen from the university.
