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A man wanted on a court warrant for serious drug offences was shot by police on Monday evening after allegedly threatening to detonate an explosive device at a property on Ashford Road, near Maidstone.
Kent Police confirmed that officers attended the property—opposite the Park Gate Inn—at around 7:15pm on Monday (July 7) to execute an arrest warrant for the man, who is understood to have failed to appear in court in relation to cannabis cultivation charges. He is currently on bail for those offences along with his parents, who also reside at the address.
Upon police arrival, the suspect—believed to be in his 30s—reportedly told officers he had an explosive device inside the house and would blow up the property. A rapid escalation of the incident prompted police to call in firearms officers and specialist units, including explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams from the British Army.
Shortly before 9pm, armed officers discharged their weapons, seriously injuring the suspect. He was taken to a London hospital, where he is receiving treatment for what have been described as life-changing injuries.
Independent Investigation Launched
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the police shooting. In a statement, a spokesperson said:
“We have begun an independent investigation after a man was shot and seriously injured by Kent Police. Our investigation is in its early stages. Investigators have been deployed to the scene and to the police post-incident procedure to gather evidence.”
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Court Records Link Suspect to Drug Operation
Court documents seen by UKNIP confirm that three individuals linked to the property—Stuart O’Meara, Catherine O’Meara, and Sean O’Meara—are facing charges related to the cultivation and supply of cannabis.
Sean O’Meara, 36, was previously charged with cultivating 1,920 cannabis plants and being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs. His parents, Stuart (62) and Catherine (58), both of Park Gate Cottage, were charged with permitting the production of cannabis on their premises.
A warrant for Sean O’Meara’s arrest was issued after he failed to appear in court for the drug offences, prompting Monday’s police operation.
A20 Ashford Road Closed; Large Cordon Remains
The A20 Ashford Road remains closed in both directions between Chegworth Road and Penfold Hill as police continue investigations. A significant cordon is in place around the Park Gate Inn and neighbouring properties, with officers maintaining a presence at the scene.
A spokesperson for the Park Gate Inn clarified on Tuesday:
“The incident did not take place inside the pub. All of our staff are safe and we are following police guidance to ensure public safety.”
Kent Police said:
“As with all police shootings, a mandatory referral has been made to the IOPC. We are cooperating fully with their investigation.”
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Kent Police or the IOPC.
