Four individuals are facing numerous charges following a police investigation triggered by a trespassing incident at Western University’s campus in London, Ont. The London Police Service stated that chemicals capable of producing explosives were found in a residence in the University Heights neighborhood adjacent to the campus. Law enforcement maintained a heavy presence in the area, including a bomb disposal unit and an excavator situated at 212 Chesham Place.
The inquiry kicked off on Saturday at Western University when law enforcement responded to a trespassing report around 1:40 a.m. ET. Campus police apprehended a 27-year-old man from Ottawa after a foot chase, during which a loaded handgun was confiscated.
Subsequent investigations revealed a second individual’s involvement, leading authorities to the Chesham Place residence where two more individuals were arrested. Acting detective superintendent Sean Travis of the London Police Service stated that certain observations at the house raised concerns about the presence of chemicals that could potentially be used for making explosive devices. However, no actual devices were discovered.
The arrested individuals were identified as Fei (Frank) Han, 25, and Feiyang (Astrid) Ji, 21, both from London, Jerry Tong, 27, from Ottawa, and Zekun Wang, 26, a resident of London. Han and Ji were charged with unlawful possession of explosives, while Tong faced six charges, including carrying a concealed weapon and break and enter offenses. Wang was charged with break and enter offenses as well.
The investigation has been ongoing since Saturday, with neighbors expressing surprise at the turn of events. Streets surrounding the residence remain closed as authorities conduct a thorough search and removal of the hazardous chemicals. The university, which temporarily closed four engineering buildings during the initial incident, has since reopened them and is collaborating with the police on the investigation.
