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Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
British 'arson gang' recruited by Moscow-backed Wagner Group to 'firebomb Mayfair restaurant and kidnap 'Russian dissident' owner after torching Ukrainian parcel firm warehouse', court hears
Two British men were recruited by Russia 's Wagner Group to firebomb a Mayfair restaurant and kidnap its owner after carrying out a £1million arson attack on a warehouse with equipment bound for Ukraine, a court heard yesterday The terrorist group conducting a sabotage campaign on behalf of Russian intelligence is said to have recruited two men to set fire to a warehouse in Leyton, East London, destroying over £100,000 worth of equipment, including generators and vital Starlink satellite equipment destined for Ukraine. The Old Bailey heard that the blaze at 11.40pm on March 20 last year was livestreamed on Facetime to the 'architect' of the plot who then reported back to the Russians on the success of the 'mission'. The attack was orchestrated by Jake Reeves, 23, and Dylan Earl, 20, from Leicestershire who went on to plan an arson attack on a restaurant and wine business in Mayfair by kidnapping the owner of the businesses. The owner of the Hide Restaurant and Hedonism Wines, which were valued at over £30million and employed 200 people, was described as a 'high profile dissident' and 'refugee' who was open about his criticism of Putin, the court heard. The duo planned to kidnap him in a bid to 'influence the Government' to further 'a political and ideological cause', jurors were told. Their kidnapping and arson plot was unearthed after a group of men, who were supposedly enlisted by Reeves and Earl, stood trial on allegations of setting a east London warehouse storing Ukrainian bound equipment alight. Prosecutor Duncan Penny, KC, said: 'Acting at the behest of the Wagner Group, [Earl] planned a similar arson attack on two businesses – a wine shop called Hedonism and a restaurant called Hide – in West London. Jake Reeves (pictured left) and Dylan Earl orchestrated an attack on satellite equipment bound for Ukraine before planning an arson on a restaurant in Mayfor, a court heard 'The businesses belong to a high-profile Russian dissident and refugee who has been vocal in his criticism of president Putin and the war in Ukraine. He has, for example, driven aid trucks from the UK to Ukraine personally.' Mr Penny added: 'You might think that it is self-evident that these actions were designed to influence the government and to intimidate at least a section of the public and furthermore were made for the purpose of advancing a political and ideological cause.' Both have also already admitted aggravated arson on behalf of the Wagner Group and an offence under the National Security Act, jurors heard. They also have admitted the separate plot to set fire to the firms in west London, as well as to kidnapping their owner on behalf of the Wagner Group. Yesterday the four men who were allegedly recruited to carry out the attack, Jakeem Rose, 23, Ugnius Asmena, 20, Nii Mensah, 23 and Paul English, 61, went on trial accused of aggravated arson. Mr Penny told jurors: 'This was deliberate and calculated criminality - at the behest of foreign influence. 'In the case of these defendants at the time of the fire they may have been ignorant of that influence and the motive may have been financial - good old-fashioned greed. 'For others, however, it appears to have been both political and ideological.' Mr Penny said the warehouse was targeted because of its connection to Ukraine, with the premises also being used to store humanitarian aid bound for the war zone. The fire started by a jerry can of petrol caused more than £1million in damage to the buildings, with eight fire crews battling to bring it under control. The driver of a lorry parked nearby tried unsuccessfully to put out the fire which was started within 10metres of houses, but no one was hurt in the attack. Earl, described as the 'architect' of the plot, was said to have knowingly acted at the behest of the Wagner Group, a proscribed terrorist organisation 'under the direct command of the Russian government'. The Briton contacted the Wagner Group on the encrypted social media application Telegram expressing a willingness to undertake 'missions' of which the Leyton arson attack was the first, Mr Penny said. 'It is apparent that Dylan Earl knew he was acting against Ukrainian, and for Russian, interests,' he told jurors. 'The reason for the selection of this building as a particular target in East London in March of last year appears to have been its connection to Ukraine.' The warehouse housed a logistics company which was frequently delivering goods to Ukraine, including StarLink satellite equipment. Reeves only discovered afterwards the motive for the attack but was 'still prepared to agree to accept money from a foreign intelligence service in respect of further planned offences,' the court was told. Mr Penny said the four alleged arsonists 'may have been ignorant of that influence', but acted out of 'old-fashioned greed'. The group were captured on CCTV with Rose seen pouring a jerry can of petrol onto the doors of the warehouse units and setting them alight, jurors heard. Mensah is alleged to have filmed the blaze with a mobile telephone, livestreaming it to Earl. The court heard that there is 'overwhelming evidence' against the defendants, including a knife with Rose's DNA dropped at the scene. Following the attack, Mensah allegedly messaged Earl saying: 'Bro there was bare smoke... You saw it on Face Time. He added: 'Bro lol it's on the news... we dun damagees (sic).' Rose, of Croydon, Asmena, of no fixed address, Mensah, of Thornton Heath and English, of Roehampton, have denied aggravated arson. The case continues.
Tatler Asia
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
A timeless love story: Inside the two-day wedding celebration of Yeoh Keong Wei and Deborah Low
Above Yeoh and Low walking the down the wedding aisle Above Low Mun Wai, Joyce Chan, Deborah Low, Yeoh Keong Wei, Datin Lim Lee Lee, Dato' Yeoh Seok Kian Yeoh, who is in the family business as a director of YTL Land & Development and works alongside his father, the managing director of YTL Corporation, decided to orchestrate a proposal that perfectly embodied their six year relationship with thoughtful intent. He booked an entire spa island at Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives, transforming it with Low's favourite blooms—soft pink, cream, and white peonies, ranunculus, and elegant roses—all bathed in candlelight. 'The most unforgettable part was the sincerity and emotion of the proposal itself,' they shared. 'It wasn't merely the beauty of the setting that made the moment magical; it was the genuine warmth, intention, and depth of feeling behind every detail.' Above The wedding invitations were designed by L'atelier de Veronica Above Each invitation was beautifully personalised to feature the guest names in elegant calligraphy Day One: Sacred Vows Above Low is wearing an Elie Saab wedding gown with a custom Elie Saab veil Above Yeoh is wearing a made-to-measure Windsor tuxedo from Tom Ford Above The couple taking their vows On December 6, 2024, two hundred of the couple's closest family and friends gathered at Sentul Pavilion for an intimate ceremony that seamlessly blended romance with understated grandeur. Working with their wedding planners, The Wedding Stylist and Liz Linkleter Events, the couple created a bespoke glass marquee soaring nine meters high, complete with majestic six-meter double doors for the bride's entrance. Photo 1 of 21 Table decorations at the wedding Photo 2 of 21 Cocktail menu was curated with Bar Mizukami inspired by the couple's favourite flavours from their travels Photo 3 of 21 Collaborating with Hide Restaurant, the couple developed a distinctive Japanese-Italian menu reflecting their appreciation for these two cuisines. Photo 4 of 21 Summery inspired cocktails fit for the occasion Photo 5 of 21 The wedding cake stands seven tiers high featuring cascading sugar flowers in an ombre effect Photo 6 of 21 The photowall Photo 7 of 21 The flowers were provided by Fiore Dorato Photo 8 of 21 The menu was created in collaboration with Hide Restaurant and features a distinctive Japanese-Italian fusion dishes to reflect the couple's appreciation for the two cuisines Photo 9 of 21 Table decor Photo 10 of 21 Guest about to enjoy the dish Photo 11 of 21 Table decor Photo 12 of 21 Table decor and napkins Photo 13 of 21 Beautiful flowers by Fiore Dorato Photo 14 of 21 The 'Take Me Home' Floral Station by Fiore Dorato where guests were encouraged to create personal bouquets for a memorable keepsake Photo 15 of 21 Collaborating with Softe, a selection of creatively flavoured baked goods representing the couple's favourite flavours was available for guests to take home Photo 16 of 21 Guest looking at the wedding favours Photo 17 of 21 wedding favours for guests to take home from the ceremony Photo 18 of 21 Guest with her customised bouquet of flowers Photo 19 of 21 Guests giving a toast to the newlyweds Photo 20 of 21 Amazing performance by Élan Artists Photo 21 of 21 The bar featured bespoke designs incorporating wallpaper that matched the couple's wedding invitations The floral design by Fiore Dorato featured soft, delicate beauty with blush and cream tones. Ranunculus, quicksand roses, and peonies created an atmosphere of timeless romance, while a pathway of petals lined the aisle, their hues harmonising with the surrounding greenery. As sunlight filtered through the grand windows, Low glided down a petal-strewn aisle in an Elie Saab gown and floral-adorned veil to Cyndi Lauper's Time After Time , performed live by Élan Artists, while Yeoh cut a sophisticated figure in a made-to-measure Windsor tuxedo from Tom Ford. See also: Poodles and Powerpoints: The fairytale wedding of Nicole Tham and Ng Chee Hong Above Yeoh and Low Above Low with her bridesmaids Above Yeoh and his groomsmen One of the most poignant moments came during the exchange of vows, which the couple had composed privately and kept secret until that moment. 'These vows were more than mere promises, they became sincere declarations that laid the foundation for our marriage,' they shared. 'Though we had loved every moment of planning our wedding, we knew then that nothing else mattered—just the two of us, exchanging vows and committing ourselves to each other.' Following the ceremony, guests moved to a reception featuring banquette-style seating that created an atmosphere reminiscent of an intimate fine-dining restaurant. Every detail reflected quiet luxury, from French blue ribbons embroidered with each guest's name to bespoke stationery by L'atelier de Veronica Halim. Above Yeoh and Low during the cake cutting A seven-tier wedding cake with cascading sugar flowers served as a visual masterpiece. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated Italian-Japanese menu by chef Shaun Ng of Hide Restaurant, celebrating the couple's appreciation for elevated dining experiences. As the celebration concluded, guests were invited to a 'take-me-home' flower bouquet station by Fiore Dorato and given the couple's favourite baked goods by chef Elwyn Boyles of Softe—thoughtful tokens of appreciation for their presence. Day Two: Tradition Meets Modern Elegance Photo 1 of 11 Low in a custom cheongsam by Lady Jane and Yeoh is wearing a custom samfu by Agus Lim Photo 2 of 11 The couple and their beloved pet dog, Latte Photo 3 of 11 Low is wearing a custom cheongsam by Adrian Gan and Yeoh is wearing a custom samfu by Agus Lim Photo 4 of 11 Back view of Yeoh and Low's outfit for the tea ceremony Photo 5 of 11 Details of Low's custom cheongsam by Adrian Gan Photo 6 of 11 Yeoh in his custom samfu by Agus Lim Photo 7 of 11 The couple and their beloved pet dog, Latte Photo 8 of 11 Low in her custom cheongsam by Lady Jane Photo 9 of 11 Yeoh and his 'hengdais' Photo 10 of 11 Low and her bridesmaids Photo 11 of 11 Low and Yeoh greeting the littles ones who attended their tea ceremony The following day began with traditional gate-crashing games and tea ceremonies at the Majestic Hotel and YTL Residence. The bride wore two stunning custom cheongsams—first by Lady Jane and then by Adrian Gan, the latter thoughtfully featuring their beloved dogs. The groom complemented her in a custom samfu by Agus Lim. Photo 1 of 11 Amazing floral decorations by Fiore Dorato for the second day of the wedding at Majestic Hotel Photo 2 of 11 The evening's menu featured customised fusion cuisine by Majestic Hotel Photo 3 of 11 Table decorations for the evening Photo 4 of 11 Custom cocktails by Bar Mizukami Photo 5 of 11 Beautiful floral decorations decorated the entire space of the evening's festivities Photo 6 of 11 Performance by Élan Artists Photo 7 of 11 Guest about to start dinner Photo 8 of 11 A spectacular nine tier cake by Miss Shortcakes with a striking floral cascade Photo 9 of 11 A special engraving station allowed guests to personalise coupe glasses with their initials, beautifully packaged in customised wrapping paper featuring the bride's favourite poem, presented in bespoke gift bags Photo 10 of 11 Guests in the ballroom Photo 11 of 11 Performance by Élan Artists Above The Majestic Hotel Ballroom which was transformed to a beautiful venue for the evening reception The historic Majestic Hotel Ballroom was transformed into a vision of refined elegance for the evening reception. The space was draped floor-to-ceiling in soft champagne tones and illuminated by over 1,800 candles, creating a warm, golden glow throughout. Two bespoke bars stood on either side, each adorned with more than 250 candles. As 550 guests entered the ballroom, they were greeted by singers from Élan Artists performing evergreen classics. The bride made a breathtaking entrance in a Zuhair Murad gown, later changing into a custom Paolo Sebastian evening gown for a stunning second appearance. The couple unveiled a spectacular nine-tier wedding cake adorned with a striking spiral cascade of florals that harmonised with the ballroom's opulent displays. A champagne tower toast added another unforgettable moment to the evening's festivities. Photo 1 of 22 Yeoh is wearing a made-to-measure Windsor tuxedo from Tom Ford, Low is wearing a Zuhair Murad wedding gown Photo 2 of 22 Back view of Low's Zuhair Murad wedding gown Photo 3 of 22 The couple's table with their parents Photo 4 of 22 The couple coordinated a menu showcasing customised fusion cuisine by Majestic Hotel, creatively blending culinary styles that reflected their eclectic tastes Photo 5 of 22 The couple cutting their nine-tier wedding cake Photo 6 of 22 Low and Yeoh Photo 7 of 22 Dato' Yeoh Seok Kian giving a heartfelt speech, accompanied by Datin Lim Lee Lee Photo 8 of 22 The couple during the champagne pour Photo 9 of 22 Friends of the newlyweds Photo 10 of 22 Friends of the newlyweds Photo 11 of 22 Family and friends of the newlyweds Photo 12 of 22 The newlyweds with family and friends Photo 13 of 22 Heartfelt speech by the groomsmen Photo 14 of 22 Celebratory toast by friends Photo 15 of 22 Friends of the newlyweds Photo 16 of 22 Guests enjoying the bar Photo 17 of 22 Family and friends of the newlyweds Photo 18 of 22 Yeoh and Low with friends Photo 19 of 22 The evening party begins Photo 20 of 22 Élan Artists providing some amazing soundtrack for the evening's celebrations Photo 21 of 22 Élan Artists rocking the crowd during the evening celebration Photo 22 of 22 Low in a Zuhair Murad wedding gown and Yeoh in a made-to-measure Windsor tuxedo from Tom Ford Throughout the night, thoughtful details abounded—guests had their initials etched onto personalised coupe glasses as keepsakes, and the carefully curated banquette-style seating fostered an atmosphere of warmth and connection despite the large guest count. The evening dinner concluded with the entire family gathering on stage for a spirited and traditional 'Yam Seng' toast—a perfect finale to a celebration that honoured both heritage and contemporary elegance. Above Yam Seng ceremony led by the Yeoh family A Nostalgic After-Party Above Yeoh and Low recreated the legendary Rootz club for their wedding after-party Above Low and Yeoh with a poster of their wedding after-party The celebration continued with an extraordinary after-party that paid homage to the couple's teenage years. The Wedding Stylist and Liz Linkleter Events created two distinct, meticulously curated spaces. The first was a vibrant 2000s-themed 'house' comprising four thoughtfully designed rooms—a living room with a holographic bar serving nostalgic cocktails infused with childhood drinks, a kitchen stocked with beloved snacks, a hidden speakeasy beer pong room concealed behind a fridge door, and an authentically styled 2000s bedroom featuring lockers, vintage fashion, and interactive elements including a fully operational MSN Messenger setup. Don't miss: May Jirutta's spectacular bridal look at her wedding to Chef Ton Photo 1 of 30 The after-party featured two distinct, meticulously curated spaces crafted by The Wedding Stylist and Liz Linkleter Events Photo 2 of 30 Unique cocktails infused with childhood drinks like Vitagen and Milo Photo 3 of 30 Board and card games as well as photos from their childhood Photo 4 of 30 Decoration inspired by the interior of the iconic Rootz club Photo 5 of 30 A cool and nostalgic bar area for the after party celebration Photo 6 of 30 The wedding after party is a nostalgic tribute to the couple's teenage years Photo 7 of 30 Snacks and drinks from their teenage years Photo 8 of 30 Gift dispensers Photo 9 of 30 The aesthetics of the after party is a nostalgic tribute to the couple's teenage years such as this fully operational MSN Messenger setup Photo 10 of 30 Party favours for guests Photo 11 of 30 A guest leaving her mark at the after-party Photo 12 of 30 Guests partying Photo 13 of 30 A hidden speakeasy fridge Photo 14 of 30 An old school kitchen to fit the after party's theme Photo 15 of 30 Newlyweds paintings were party of the after party decor Photo 16 of 30 Aside from the nostalgic teen aesthetics, the after party also featured a tribute to Rootz Club with VIP seating areas Photo 17 of 30 The after party food was inspired by classic post clubbing favourites Photo 18 of 30 Guests partying Photo 19 of 30 Champagne celebration for the after party Photo 20 of 30 Childhood boardgames were also part of the after party Photo 21 of 30 Neon decor for the after party Photo 22 of 30 Cocktails for the after party curated by Bar Mizukami Photo 23 of 30 Yeoh and Low Photo 24 of 30 Guests participating in some party games Photo 25 of 30 Guests taking a drink Photo 26 of 30 Poster of the couple at the after party Photo 27 of 30 Nostalgic games at the after party Photo 28 of 30 Keong Wei and his friends Photo 29 of 30 The after party went on all night long Photo 30 of 30 Over the two days, photography was handled by Sarah Falugo's team, with videography captured by Peyton Frank's team The second space lovingly recreated Rootz Club KL, a nightclub integral to the couple's late-2000s social experiences. The sophisticated decor paid homage to the original club's distinctive deep-red velvet aesthetic, complemented by playful Baroque-inspired portraits and an authentic VIP area. A Celebration of Friendship and Family Above Yeoh and his new bride Low during the after party Throughout both days, heartfelt speeches created moments of profound connection. The fathers of both bride and groom shared touching anecdotes that offered glimpses into the couple's childhoods, while speeches from groomsmen and bridesmaids—friends who had known them since high school—brought laughter and warmth. 'These are friends who have been part of our lives since high school,' the couple shared. 'Without realising it, they've witnessed our entire journey—from early friendships through countless shared milestones—watching our relationship blossom and deepen over the years.' For the newlywed's parents, this wedding was more than a magnificent display of style and thoughtful planning—it was the beautiful beginning of a marriage rooted in friendship and authentic connection. Credits Photography: Sarah Falugo and team
