Man Shot by Police After Threatening to Blow Up Ashford Road Property
Armed Standoff Ends in Police Shooting
A man wanted on a court warrant for serious drug offences was shot by police on Monday evening. Officers were called to a property on Ashford Road after the suspect allegedly threatened to detonate an explosive device. The situation sparked a tense stand-off that ended with the man being shot.
Investigations are still in the early stages, with detectives scouring the scene and carrying out police post-incident procedures to gather evidence.
Drug Ring Tied to Suspect and Family
Court documents reveal the man, Sean O’Meara, 36, is at the centre of a cannabis cultivation and supply operation. Sean was charged with growing nearly 2,000 cannabis plants and supplying Class B drugs. His parents, Stuart (62) and Catherine O’Meara (58), who live at Park Gate Cottage, face charges for permitting cannabis production on their premises.
Sean had a warrant issued for his arrest after failing to appear in court, which triggered Monday’s police action.
A20 Ashford Road Shut as Police Maintain Large Cordon
The A20 Ashford Road remains closed both ways between Chegworth Road and Penfold Hill. Police have sealed off the area around the Park Gate Inn and nearby homes, maintaining a significant presence.
The Park Gate Inn confirmed the incident did not happen inside the pub and reassured that all staff are safe.
“The incident did not take place inside the pub. All of our staff are safe and we are following police guidance to ensure public safety.”
Police and IOPC Investigations Underway
kent-police/" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police confirmed they have made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) following the shooting and are fully cooperating with the inquiry.
“As with all police shootings, a mandatory referral has been made to the IOPC. We are cooperating fully with their investigation.”
If you have any information about the incident, contact Kent Police or the IOPC immediately.
