Man Charged Over Sidcup ULEZ Camera Explosion
A 61-year-old man from Sidcup has been charged after a shocking explosion at a newly installed Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) camera site last December. Kevin Rees, of Harcourt Avenue, faces serious charges including causing an explosion likely to endanger life or cause serious property damage. He is also accused of possessing three prohibited weapons. Rees is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, November 11.
Explosion Rocks Sidcup in December
The incident happened on the evening of December 6, 2023. Police rushed to Willersley Avenue, Sidcup, at around 6:45pm following reports of an explosion at the ULEZ camera site. The Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command led the probe, highlighting the seriousness of the blast.
Second Man Charged Over Camera Damage
In a related development, Stephen Richard Harwood-Stamper, 62, from Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, has also been charged—but only with criminal damage to the ULEZ camera on the same day. Authorities say the explosion and his damage charges are not currently connected. Harwood-Stamper faces additional charges for using a false number plate and will appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on November 27.
Police Caution Public Against Speculation
“We know that this incident caused much concern locally at the time. Local officers have continued to support the investigation team as they have diligently gone about gathering evidence in this case, working closely with the CPS, which has led to these charges being brought. The criminal justice process must now run its course, and I would therefore ask people not to speculate further.”
– Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, Bexley Policing
The local community breathed a sigh of relief with charges finally laid after months of worry. The upcoming court hearings will reveal more about these mysterious attacks on Sidcup’s ULEZ infrastructure and the motives behind them.
