The serious arson attack that took place in the British capital, London, has concluded its court proceedings. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
This crime not only posed a threat to human lives but also negatively impacted international peace and security. According to court information, the attack was carried out by individuals associated with the Wagner military group, a close ally of Russia.
In court, 23-year-old Jakim Rose, 20-year-old Ugnius Asmena, and another 23-year-old Nii Mensa were found guilty of arson and endangering human life. They set fire to a warehouse located in the eastern part of London, damaging humanitarian aid and Starlink internet equipment being sent to Ukraine.
During the investigation, 20-year-old Dilan Erl and 23-year-old Jake Reeves were identified as the individuals who organized this attack. They managed the criminals on behalf of the Wagner group and partially admitted their guilt.
The fire that occurred on the night of March 20, 2024, around midnight, nearly completely destroyed the Cromwell Industrial Estate warehouse. The material damage was estimated to be around one million pounds sterling.
Sixty firefighters and eight special vehicles were deployed to the scene. Mensa, who set fire to the warehouse, broadcasted his actions live.
One of the truck drivers attempted to stop the fire but was unable to do so. His bravery was highly appreciated by the public.
According to court information, individuals linked to Wagner had also planned arson attacks against expensive restaurants and wine shops located in other areas of London, particularly in Mayfair. There was also an attempt to kidnap a wealthy Russian dissident.
Dilan Erl made history as the first person to commit a crime under the National Security Law adopted in 2023. This law aims to curb the activities of hostile states and holds significant legal importance.
Dominic Myorfin, head of the Metropolitan Police's counter-terrorism unit, emphasized that this crime was carried out by organizations linked to Russia through intermediaries in Britain. The intermediaries are British citizens who engaged in illegal activities to protect the interests of foreign states.
It has been revealed that Erl communicated directly with the Wagner group via Telegram and carried out assignments. In court, the fifth suspect, Ashton Evans, was found guilty of failing to provide information about terrorist activities but was acquitted for not reporting the arson.
The sixth individual, Dmitriy Pauluskas, was acquitted. David Kotor, head of the Prosecutor General's anti-terrorism department, stated that the court's decisions are firm and that no one will escape punishment.
This incident highlights the need for serious measures against individuals who may be under the influence of hostile states in Britain. At the same time, it calls for an increase in the activities of security services.
It is known that the Wagner group is carrying out similar actions in other countries as well. This incident proves that the threat is real and widespread.
Therefore, the public and all citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies immediately. Peace, security, and independence are important for all of us.
