Russian Arson Attack Case Sees 7 Charged

Two men, Jakeem Barrington Rose, 22, and Ugnius Asmena, 19, have been charged with aggravated arson in connection with an alleged arson attack on Ukrainian-linked businesses in London, suspected to be orchestrated by the Wagner Group. They join five other defendants already charged for the fire at an industrial unit in Leyton on March 20, which required 60 firefighters to control. Rose faces additional charges of possessing offensive weapons. This case marks the first under the new National Security Act, with allegations involving the Wagner Group, a proscribed terrorist organization. Police have reassured the public that there is no wider threat, and the investigation is ongoing, with a plea hearing set for October and a trial expected in June 2025. The incident is linked to broader activities intended to benefit Russia, according to the charges.