Four individuals linked to a probe involving the production of explosives and firearms in London, Ontario, now confront 19 additional charges as per court records filed on Tuesday. Jerry Tong, Zekun (Alex) Wang, Fei (Frank) Han, and Feiyang (Astrid) Ji were initially charged in January. All were either students or recent alumni of Western University, with the three male suspects having backgrounds in the university’s engineering program.
The updated set of charges presented to the Ontario Court of Justice raises the total counts to 31, encompassing joint charges against all four defendants as well as individual charges. The fresh accusations include possession of five specific explosive materials, possession of stolen items, and unauthorized access to computer data related to firearm production.
The investigation, which began on January 24 following a trespassing incident at Western University, led to the arrests of the accused. Law enforcement apprehended one person outside an engineering building, subsequently locating the remaining suspects at a residence in the University Heights neighborhood.
Law enforcement conducted an extensive search of the residence where Wang, Han, and Ji resided, along with two other properties in Orléans, Ottawa, and Gatineau, Quebec.
Initially facing firearms charges upon their arrest, the four defendants, Tong, Wang, Han, and Ji, now confront additional offenses such as possession of firearm accessories, prohibited firearms, and unauthorized storage of rifles. Tong also faces charges related to incidents in other cities, including the possession and manufacturing of firearms at various locations.
Additionally, Wang has been charged with weapon manufacturing during a specific period, while Tong and Wang are accused of breaking into a Western building on a prior date. The quartet also faces new charges for possessing an array of explosive substances.
The accused individuals are at different stages in the legal process, with two out on bail and the remaining two in custody. Tong chose not to seek bail and remains detained, while Han was denied bail and is back in custody. Wang secured bail under stringent conditions, including house arrest and supervision from two sureties, each posting a significant sum. Ji is also out on bail without any sureties.