In a court hearing, it was revealed that a “potent explosive device” used to destroy a ULEZ camera in Sidcup, southeast London, had such immense power that it propelled shrapnel over 100 meters away, reaching a child’s bedroom.
Kevin Rees, aged 63, stands accused of constructing and positioning the explosive device to dismantle the ULEZ camera on Willersley Avenue on December 6, 2023. The Woolwich Crown Court was informed that Rees could have caused severe harm as he allegedly crafted a bomb using a metal cylinder and explosive material.
The explosive force of the bomb not only affected residences in the immediate vicinity but also penetrated a child’s bedroom window, scattering debris inside.
According to prosecutor Simon Denison KC, Rees drove from his residence on Harcourt Avenue to the site on Willersley Avenue, as reported by London Now, where he allegedly planted the device at the camera location. Subsequently, he ignited the fuse before departing. The explosion occurred after his departure, causing tremors in nearby homes.
Shrapnel was dispersed across the area, striking a parked van and penetrating the door of a passing vehicle, narrowly missing its occupant.
The blast damaged a child’s bedroom located 28 meters away, resulting in the destruction of a blind and debris scattered inside. Fortunately, the room was unoccupied at the time, and there were no injuries from the wider explosion.
A fragment from the camera traveled over 100 meters, causing damage to a residence on Shuttle Close. Denison highlighted that it was fortunate no one was harmed.
Denison emphasized that despite no injuries resulting from the explosion, it was purely fortuitous. An eyewitness described hearing a loud explosion, causing a startling impact.
Forensic experts identified traces of substances typically present in “black powder” explosives, commonly used in fireworks.
Evidence of Rees’ interest in chemicals suitable for homemade explosives was found during a search of his residence, including packages containing aluminum powder and iron oxide, which when combined create thermite, a low explosive.
Police uncovered a chemical price list from June 2011 during the search, indicating substances that could be utilized in homemade explosives.
Rees denies the charge of causing an explosion likely to endanger life or property damage and three additional charges related to possessing a prohibited weapon. Denison informed the jury that Rees refutes being responsible for the detonation.
The trial is ongoing.
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