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Man charged following fire at Napier Barracks will face trial

By: Sam Williams swilliams@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 09:49, 02 March 2021

Updated: 13:35, 16 March 2021

A man who was charged following the suspected arson attack at Napier Barracks will face a trial.

Fourteen people were arrested following the disturbance at the Folkestone military camp, which is being used to house asylum seekers, in January.

Flames and smoke could be seen at the barracks during the fire

No serious injuries were reported but a significant amount of damage was caused to one part of the site following the blaze - which is believed to have been started deliberately.

One of these suspects, 31-year-old Mohammed Ali, was charged with assault by beating, using or threatening unlawful violence and criminal damage.

He appeared at Canterbury Crown Court on Monday, and pleaded not guilty.

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He will now face a trial, which is due to start on August 31.

The other men arrested were released on bail.

Police at the scene outside the barracks during the fire. Photo: Barry Goodwin

The fire at Napier Barracks was just one of many incidents at the site over the last few months.

Protests, including one where fake blood was thrown at the gates, hunger strikes and a Covid-19 outbreak have also resulted in increased tension.

Some service users were moved out of the barracks to make social distancing easier.

At a meeting last week, members of Folkestone and Hythe District Council accused the Home Office of acting in a 'disgraceful' manner over the opening of Napier Barracks.

Members also said some nearby residents have been left 'petrified'.

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone

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