A 24-year-old man named Anthony Esan has been charged with attempted murder after a British Army officer was stabbed near an army barracks in Kent. The incident took place at Sally Port Gardens in Gillingham on Tuesday, where police responded to reports of a serious assault. The victim, a lieutenant colonel in his 40s, sustained stab wounds and was airlifted to the hospital in serious but stable condition.
Esan was arrested near his home in Rochester later that day and has been charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He is set to appear in court today at Medway Magistrates’ Court. The attack occurred just 200 yards from Brompton Barracks, the home of the Royal School of Military Engineering, where the victim was dressed in a ‘cream camouflage’ military uniform at the time of the attack.
The victim’s wife sought help from residents and soldiers after the incident, which was captured on a Ring doorbell camera belonging to a neighbor. Brompton Barracks was briefly put into lockdown following the attack, with soldiers instructed to remain indoors. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and opposition leader Rishi Sunak both expressed their shock and well wishes for the soldier’s recovery.
Chief of General Staff General Sir Roly Walker of the British Army also expressed his sadness over the incident, confirming the victim’s status as an officer in the Army. The Army spokesperson stated that they will be cooperating with Kent Police to investigate the incident further.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of military personnel in the area and has sparked discussions about the need for increased security measures near army barracks. Local residents have also expressed their shock and concern over the violent attack so close to their homes.
As investigations continue and the legal process unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved. The community must come together to support the victim, his family, and the armed forces during this difficult time.
