A Stevenage man was suprised to find himself at gun-point surrounded by police after carrying a sword on a train.
Charlie Rablah – a 29–year–old labourer – was returning home from Finsbury Park after his sword fighting training class when he was confronted by a large group of armed police at Stevenage railway station.
“When I initially saw them I had no idea they were for me, even with a sword in my possession,” said Charlie.
After being arrested at the station, Charlie and his re-enactment sword – a steel sword where the top and edges are completely dull – were transported to the police station.
“It didn’t take them long to suss they had been on a goose chase and dropped all hostility towards me,” said Charlie.
“They seemed very interested in my sword fighting training – which I have only recently started – and eagerly asked questions about what it’s like.
A fellow passenger on the train had overheard Charlie talking on the phone to a friend about his new sword and becamed concerned.
The British Transport Police said: “At 8.40pm on April 8, officers were called to Stevenage station after reports of a man in possession of a sword on board a train. Officers met the service and a 29-year-old man from Stevenage was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.
“The sword was later identified as being used for re-enactment and no further action was taken in relation to this. However, the man was issued with a Section 5 penalty notice for disorder.”
Charlie told the Comet: “I received a caution and a £90 fine for swearing at the officers. After my arrest they actually told me it was understandable, it’s not every day you have a gun pointed at your head!”
Charlie enjoys attending re-enactments in his free time.
“I’m obsessed with history especially the Viking age and acting has always been a passion of mine,” he said.
“So getting into re-enactment has been brilliant fun. I train with my sword an hour a day.”
Despite the ordeal, Charlie is still in good spirits – adding: “The whole experience shocked the life out of me and really sent my adrenaline through the roof.
“But I’m very happy to not be in any serious trouble and to be reunited with my sword.”
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