By Salma El-Sakka
A crossbow-wielding arsonist who believed he was a “soldier of God” and carried out a three-week campaign targeting 5G masts has been detained indefinitely under the Mental Health Act. Milo Creese, 40, a professional artist from Ottershaw, Surrey, was found not guilty by reason of insanity at the Old Bailey on charges including arson with intent to endanger life, two counts of arson, damaging property, possessing an offensive weapon, and two assaults on emergency workers.
Attacks on 5G masts and restaurant
The court heard that Creese set fire to the 3 Rooms Indian Restaurant in Chertsey in the early hours of 31 October 2025, placing a burning device in the letterbox. Firefighters contained the blaze before it could spread to residential flats above. On 20 November, he targeted a telecommunications box at Spinney Hill, Addlestone, and was seen fleeing a fire at a large electrical tower shouting a warning that it would explode. A rucksack recovered at the scene contained bacon rashers, ball bearings and compacted manure.
Crossbow incident and arrest
The following morning, a CCTV operator monitoring 5G mast sites spotted a man lighting a bin bag and throwing it into a compound while holding a crossbow. Minutes later, Chertsey resident Hamaik Donsanjh reported that a crossbow bolt had been fired through her window. CCTV from her property captured Creese at her gate firing the 15cm metal bolt. Officers responding to the mast fire tasered Creese as he fled, but the device had no effect. During a struggle, he struck an officer with the crossbow.
Ideology and mental health
Prosecutor Lyndon Harris told jurors that Creese held an extreme right-wing ideology, including a hatred of Muslims and a delusional belief linking Islam to 5G masts and alleged atrocities. The prosecution argued his actions were terrorist-motivated. Creese’s barrister, James Gray, said he suffered from a delusional belief system, viewing himself as a “soldier of God” on a mission to “save the world.” Two psychiatrists diagnosed him with schizoaffective disorder, and he continues to receive treatment in a mental health unit.
Court ruling and detention
Judge Richard Marks KC ordered Creese to be detained indefinitely in a secure hospital under the Mental Health Act. Creese, who attended the hearing remotely, had a history of heavy crystal meth use but no previous criminal record.
