Two men have been detained by police following an investigation into an explosion in Sidcup that resulted in damage to a ULEZ camera and nearby property.
The arrests occurred on Monday, 18 December, conducted by detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command. This unit, known for its expertise in explosive-related incidents, is spearheading the inquiry.
In Sidcup, a 60-year-old man was apprehended at around 06:10 hrs, under suspicion of plotting to cause an explosion that could pose a danger to life or property. This is in violation of section two of the Explosive Substances Act of 1883.
Additionally, a 61-year-old man was arrested in Horsham at approximately 06:15 hrs. He is suspected of the same offense, along with criminal damage as defined in section one of the Criminal Damage Act of 1971.
Currently, both suspects are being held at a police station in South London. Authorities are conducting ongoing searches at two locations in Sidcup and Horsham.
Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, Commander for the Bexley area, said:
“The explosion could easily have had far more harmful consequences, and today’s arrests highlight just how seriously the Met is treating the incident.
“My local officers are continuing to work with and support the Counter Terrorism Command who are leading the investigation due to their specialism in dealing with incidents involving the use of explosives.”
Police were called to reports of an explosion on Willersley Avenue, Sidcup, at approximately 18:45hrs on 6 December. We believe that a ULEZ camera – which had been installed on the road earlier that day – was cut down at around 17:15hrs that afternoon. An explosion occurred around 90 minutes later, caused by a low-sophistication improvised explosive device.
The arrests today are a significant step forward in this investigation. Nevertheless the Counter Terrorism Command is continuing to appeal for the public to share any information that may help the investigation.
In particular, we are keen that people who drove or cycled on Willersley Avenue between 16:30hrs and 19:30hrs on 6 December share with the investigation team any camera footage they may have.
Footage can be uploaded at ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk – please select the incident “Explosion in Sidcup”
Anyone with other information that could assist the investigation is urged to share it via the same website or by calling 101 and quoting CAD 5819/06DEC.
