NEWS UPDATE – Port Talbot man charged with explosives offenses

NEWS UPDATE

Port Talbot man charged with explosives offenses

Alexander Giles, 33, has been remanded in custody following his appearance before Lllanelli Magistrates Court today (Friday the 15^th of February).

Giles faces 36 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 has also been charged with 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.

He was arrested following a pre-planned operation at his home address in Port Talbot area in October 2017 undertaken by WECTU with support from South Wales Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue Services and The Welsh Ambulance Service.

Detective Superintendent James Hall 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.”