Police remain at home near Western University after chemicals capable of making explosives discovered

Some Western students say they were never informed on a bomb-making investigation near campus as police remain on scene. Reta Ismail reports.

Police continue to investigate a home near Western University after seizing and disposing of chemicals they say could be used to make explosive devices.

London police say the investigation began early morning on Jan. 24 when a suspect was arrested on Western’s campus at approximately 2 a.m. Officers say the individual was armed with a loaded handgun and attempted to trespass into one of the university’s engineering buildings.

The arrest led investigators to a home on Chesham Avenue, near campus, where the Explosives Disposal Unit remained on scene Wednesday.

Police say concerning observations were made inside the residence during the investigation.

“During the ongoing investigation, and that observations were made in the residence that created concern about chemicals that could be used to create explosive devices.”

Four people, all in their 20s, are now facing charges in relation to the investigation.

Neither police nor Western University would confirm whether the accused are students at the university.

In a statement to CTV News, Western says its top priority is student safety on campus. However, several students tell CTV News they were not clearly informed about the incident or police activity.

Sophia Berger, a Western student, says she only learned about the situation through word of mouth.

“Didn’t get any emails from the school about a communication about the break-in. I just heard it through some friend.” Berger explained. “I want to know what action they’re taking to kind of protect students in the coming future, and just so you can feel safe on campus and know, like, if they’re going to take any action.”

Another student, Sebastian Oleskevich, says communication appeared limited to those directly affected.

“I didn’t receive an email or anything, but I know my friend did. But yeah, as a student, I mean, I think it was just sent to the people that were had scheduled courses in that building. It’s definitely a little alarming,” he said.

Police experts say it is still too early to speculate about the intent behind the chemicals seized.

Chris Lewis, CTV’s public safety analyst and former OPP commissioner, says while some chemicals have legitimate uses, the circumstances surrounding the arrest raise red flags.

“Without a doubt, there are some lawful uses for chemicals. But you don’t need a gun to do a break and enter to get them. So, I think the issue is criminal, but what was it? Just drug lab type stuff. But the presence of explosives that doesn’t go with engineers and kind of doing, any chemical type of work that reeks of something more,” Lewis said.

Police say the investigation is ongoing, and residents in the area can expect to see heightened police presence for an extended period.

A statement from Western University

“Western and its Campus Safety and Emergency Services team are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our campus community, guests and affiliated university colleges. This includes working closely with London Police Service and other first responders.

Our Western Special Constables are always working to ensure our community is safe. They can be seen interacting with students, student groups, faculty, staff and visitors while helping community members, conducting regular, proactive building checks and monitoring campus activities. The Western Special Constables have some of the same authorities as the London Police Service, with their authority covering Western University and its affiliated university colleges."

Charges include

Jerry Tong, 27, of Ottawa

• Carry concealed weapon
• Careless use of a firearm
• Possess loaded regulated firearm
• Resist arrest
• Break and enter with intent
• Occupy a motor vehicle with a firearm

Zekun Wang, 26, of London

• Break and enter with intent
• Occupy a motor vehicle with a firearm

Fei (Frank) Han, 25, of London

• Unlawful possession of explosives

Feiyang (Astrid) Ji, 21, of London

• Unlawful possession of explosives

All four people remain in custody.