A Basingstoke 25-year-old man has been charged with illegally possessing a firearm following a police raid involving anti-terror officers.

Homes in Penny Black Lane, Rooksdown, were evacuated on Wednesday during searches carried out by Hampshire Police and Counter Terrorism Policing South East and the bomb disposal unit on Thursday.

Simon Tustain, of Penny Black Lane, was subsequently charged with possession of a firearm without a certificate under Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968.

A Hampshire Police spokesman said: “The 25-year-old was arrested on Wednesday (8/9) as part of an investigation which is being led by officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East.”

Tustain is due to appear at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court today.

Speaking earlier, Chief Inspector Matthew Reeves, District Commander for Basingstoke and Deane, said he wanted to reassure the community about the searches and disruption on Thursday.

He said: “I understand that this is a worrying time in the local community, thankfully incidents of this nature are relatively rare.

“We are assisting our colleagues at Counter Terrorism Policing South East and our partner agencies to address any concerns you may have.

“You may notice an increased police presence, please don’t be alarmed, officers are involved in the investigation and are there to assist and support. Please approach these officers if you have any concerns or questions. 

“This is an active investigation so please refrain from speculation, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their support so far with this investigation.”