Wiltshire Police and PCC react to Salisbury Novichok investigation news

Today (21st September) Counter Terrorism Policing has announced that charges have been authorised against a third person in relation to the ongoing investigation into the Salisbury Novichok attack.

Following the announcement, Wiltshire Police Chief Constable Kier Pritchard commented:

“I welcome the significant news today from the Counter Terrorism Policing Network regarding the identification of a further suspect in relation to the ongoing investigation into the Salisbury Novichok attack. Furthermore, I also welcome the news from the CPS that sufficient evidence has been secured to bring charges against this third individual, ‘Sergey Fedotov’ (alias for Denis Sergeev).

“I know this announcement by the CT Policing network today will affect many people – the victims, their families and the communities of Salisbury and Amesbury. These shocking incidents had a significant impact on all involved and my thoughts, and those of Wiltshire Police, remain with Sergei and Yulia Skripal, Charlie Rowley, the family of Dawn Sturgess, who tragically died, and former Wiltshire Police Detective Sergeant, Nick Bailey.

“The Counter Terrorism Policing Network investigation team continues to work tirelessly to seek to bring those responsible to justice and Wiltshire Police will continue to offer our full and ongoing support in this investigation”.

PCC Philip Wilkinson has also commented on the news.

He said, “My thoughts, and those of my office, remain with Dawn Sturgess’ family and friends, alongside the other victims who have had their lives devastated by this incident.

“While today’s announcement is important, it is vital we remember a member of our community was killed and others left changed and traumatised by the barbaric use of a nerve agent on UK soil.

“Our community has rebuilt, and those other victims are coming to terms with the long-lasting implications, so my hope now is the perpetrators will have their appalling crimes levelled against them and all of the victims will see justice served in their names.

“I am democratically elected to hold our police force to account, it would be widely welcomed if some foreign security services demonstrated that same accountability.”

Chief Constable Kier Pritchard further commented, “I would urge anyone with any information following the appeal made today to contact the Counter Terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321 or email the investigation team at Salisbury2018@met.police.uk.”