Convicted Pedophile Stages Explosive Film Stunt Near O2 Arena

A recent incident near the O2 Arena in London has raised concerns about public safety and proper event notification. A convicted pedophile, Jacky Jhaj, orchestrated a film shoot featuring a controlled explosion that destroyed a fake BBC lorry, alarming local residents and prompting an emergency response.

The event took place on August 31, 2024, following a previous attempt on August 24 that was halted when crew members discovered Jhaj's criminal history. The 38-year-old, who is currently awaiting trial on additional charges, has a history of posing as a film producer and staging elaborate stunts.

For this particular project, Jhaj attempted to conceal his identity using a prosthetic mask but was recognized when he removed it during filming. The shoot involved Jhaj standing naked in front of a fake BBC news lorry as an explosion was triggered. He was also filmed sitting at a typewriter surrounded by newspapers before flicking a cigarette at police vehicles and the BBC lorry, all of which subsequently burst into flames.

The London Fire Brigade dispatched 25 firefighters and four fire engines to the scene at 7:51 PM in response to reports of explosions and smoke. While local police stated that the incident was part of a pre-planned filming event with no risk to the public, it appears that this information was not adequately communicated to all relevant parties.

Jhaj's criminal history includes a four-year prison sentence in 2016 for sexual activity with two 15-year-old girls. He is scheduled to stand trial at Isleworth Crown Court on August 4, 2025, for breaching notification requirements and a sexual harm prevention order.

This is not the first time Jhaj has organized controversial events. On October 17, 2023, he staged a fake red carpet event in Leicester Square, involving up to 200 children and young women posing as fans. In April 2024, he used the casting platform Backstage to hire child actors for an elaborate £10,000 fake funeral at the London Oratory.

The incident near the O2 Arena has highlighted the need for better communication between event organizers, local authorities, and emergency services to ensure public safety and prevent unnecessary alarm.

"We were not given prior notice, nor do we have any record of permission having been sought, for filming on 31 August. We are liaising closely with the London Fire Brigade and have approached the film agency involved."

As investigations continue, this event serves as a reminder of the importance of proper event planning and the potential consequences of individuals with criminal histories organizing public spectacles.