London Police at Chesham Place
Residents on Chesham Place in northwest London were evacuated for nearly a week after London police discovered firearms and materials related to explosive manufacturing inside a home in the neighbourhood.
Police say there is no ongoing threat to public safety, but the investigation has expanded beyond the city, with search warrants carried out in Ottawa and Gatineau, Quebec.
Neighbours say what began as a normal week quickly turned into days of uncertainty, blocked roads and police tape. One resident said they were first told there was no immediate danger, but were later asked to leave their home for six nights.
“We were told at first that we weren’t in any danger, but then we were evacuated for six nights. That was a little different,” the neighbour said.
Another resident described the area as usually quiet and peaceful.
“That’s not something that happens in this kind of community,” they said, adding that the strong police presence made many people uneasy.
Despite the disruption, one neighbour expressed support for officers working in the area.
“The police didn’t create this mess, they’re trying to be part of the solution,” the resident said.
The investigation began just after midnight on Jan. 24 when two men entered a building on Western University’s campus. One man was arrested for breaking and entering, and police say a loaded firearm was found near him.
Police vehicle
That arrest led officers to the Chesham Place home. During a search of the property, police say they found firearms and materials that raised serious public safety concerns. Because of the potential danger, specialized units including the Explosives Disposal Unit and forensic identification teams were called in. Nearby homes were evacuated while officers worked to secure the area.
Deputy Chief Paul Bastine called it “a complex, multi-jurisdictional investigation” during a news conference. He said the searches in other cities reflect “the thoroughness and diligence of the officers conducting this investigation, not necessarily any new or heightened public danger.”
Police later searched two additional homes one in Ottawa and one in Gatineau where they say more firearms and materials related to explosive manufacturing were located, leading to further charges.
Four adults Jerry Tong of Ottawa, and Zikun Wang, Fei Han and Fei Yang Xi of London are facing multiple charges related to firearms and explosives. All four remain in custody.
Detective Superintendent Sean Travis said laying charges means police have reasonable grounds to believe criminal offences were committed.
As the investigation continues, police say more details will be released when appropriate and in a way that does not compromise court proceedings or public safety.
