Sidcup businessman receives no compensation for van destroyed by ULEZ bomber
Kevin Rees jailed for 15 years for detonating a bomb targeting a ULEZ camera outside a home.
Incident → evidence → outcomeA Sidcup businessman has not received any compensation after his work van and a dirt bike were destroyed by a homemade bomb. The device, detonated by anti-ULEZ activist Kevin Rees outside his home in December 2023, targeted a ULEZ camera on Willersley Avenue. The explosion sent shrapnel into nearby vehicles and homes, and has caused the businessman's fleet insurance costs to soar.
Kevin Rees, 64, of Harcourt Avenue, was jailed for 15 years at the Old Bailey last Friday. Judge Anthony Bate concluded that Rees' actions had a 'terrorist connection'. Prosecutors stated it was 'sheer chance' that nobody was killed or seriously injured by the blast, which occurred around 6.45pm on December 6, 2023.
Financial losses and insurance issues
The businessman, a construction manager, reported that his work van was written off and a dirt bike stored inside was also destroyed. He told News Shopper that the loss of the van had impacted his business operations. Furthermore, his fleet insurance premiums have increased significantly since the incident. The businessman stated he has 'not seen a penny of compensation' for his losses.
He explained that because the explosion was classified as terrorism-related, his insurance policy would not cover the damage. The businessman was at home putting his child to bed when the explosion occurred, describing the noise as 'crazy' and initially thinking 'someone crashed into the wall at 100mph'.
Official responses to the incident
The businessman suggested that Transport for London (TfL) shared some responsibility for installing the camera in that location. A TfL spokesperson rejected this, stating that the attack was solely the responsibility of the offender. The spokesperson described the act as 'reckless and highly dangerous' and welcomed the sentencing, hoping it would act as a warning.
Regarding compensation for losses, TfL advised that any claims must be pursued through the courts against the individual responsible for the damage. A spokesperson for the Mayor of London added that the incident put the safety of local people at risk and created fear, reiterating support against 'all forms of extreme violence'.
Questions this report answers
01What happened to the businessman's property?
A homemade bomb detonated by Kevin Rees destroyed the businessman's work van and a dirt bike stored inside his property in Sidcup. The explosion also caused shrapnel damage to nearby vehicles and homes.
02Has the businessman received any compensation?
No, the businessman has not received any compensation for his destroyed van and dirt bike. His insurance policy would not cover the damage because the incident was classified as terrorism-related.
03What was the outcome for Kevin Rees?
Kevin Rees was jailed for 15 years at the Old Bailey for detonating the bomb. The judge concluded that his actions had a 'terrorist connection'.
04What does Transport for London say about compensation?
Transport for London stated that the attack was the offender's responsibility. They advised that any compensation claims for losses must be pursued through the courts directly against the convicted offender.
Support is available without a police report
Find London services, specialist support and the rights set out in the Victims’ Code. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Find victim supportSend a correction or case update
If a hearing, charge or outcome has changed, send the court, case number and source document so we can update the record.
Contact the deskContinue the investigation
CourtsMelbourne Thompson guilty of rape and robbery in Catford
CourtsKerry charged with Widdecombe murder, Farage home plot
CourtsLondon doctor faces October 2027 trial over Rwanda genocide charges