Two Charged in National Security Arson Probe
Two more arrests have rocked the ongoing National Security Act investigation linked to a major Counter Terrorism policing operation.
Croydon and Wandsworth Men in Court Today
Jakeem Barrington Rose, 22, from Croydon, and 19-year-old Ugnius Asmena from Wandsworth are due in Westminster Magistrates’ Court today, Saturday 3 August. Both face aggravated arson charges under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. Rose also faces possession of an offensive weapon charges.
The charges follow their arrests on Thursday, 1 August, after a violent incident involving emergency workers.
Met Police Statement
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “While these are very serious allegations, we do not believe there is any wider threat to the public. The investigation continues, but now charges have been brought I urge everyone to respect the justice process and avoid speculation.”
Earlier Charges Linked to Russian State Activity
This latest development follows initial charges in April—the first under the National Security Act since its December 2023 introduction. Those earlier suspects include:
- Dylan James Earl, 20, Leicestershire – aggravated arson and assisting a foreign intelligence service.
- Jake Reeves, 22, Croydon – aggravated arson and accepting benefits from a foreign intelligence agency.
- Dmitrijus Paulauska, 22, Croydon – failing to disclose terrorist information.
- Paul English, 60, Roehampton – aggravated arson.
- Nii Kojo Mensah, 22, Thornton Heath – aggravated arson.
The Crown Prosecution Service linked these activities to the Russian state. A pre-trial hearing is set for 4 October, with the trial scheduled at the Old Bailey in June 2025.
Investigation Ongoing
The Met’s Counter Terrorism Command leads the case with support from East Midlands, Leicestershire, South East, and Kent police forces.
Officials urge the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity as enquiries continue.
