Port Talbot man jailed for possessing explosives and firearms

Alexander Giles, 33, has been sentenced to six years at Swansea Crown Court today (Friday June 7^th 2019) after pleading guilty to 23 charges relating to offences under the Explosive Substances Act 1883, which relates to chemicals and components that could be used in the manufacture of explosive substances or devices.

He also entered guilty pleas to three offences under Section 5 Firearms Act 1968 offences including possession of a Taser, two charges concerning the manufacture of Class A Drugs, and two charges of possession of Class A drugs.

Giles was arrested following a pre-planned operation at his home address in Port Talbot in October 2017 undertaken by the Wales extremism and counter terrorism unit (WECTU) with support from South Wales Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Services and The Welsh Ambulance Service.

Detective Superintendent James Hall the head of WECTU said: “This was a significant and complex inquiry for the police and partners, to safely deal with these volatile items and seek to establish Giles motives for storing them.

“A thorough investigation found no known links to terrorist offences and we believe Giles was acting independently. However, he showed utter disregard for the occupants of surrounding buildings.

“Giles’ activities went unnoticed for a period of time, demonstrating the importance of community vigilance in our efforts to keep Wales safe.

“The public already contribute intelligence to around a third of the most serious investigations. Communities shouldn’t be concerned about wasting police time or getting someone into trouble.

“The message is clear – ‘don’t worry, don’t delay, just act’ by reporting suspicious activity to the police by calling confidentially on 0800 789 321 or at gov.uk/ACT.”