Army sergeant charged over weapon

An Army sergeant has been arrested and charged after he allegedly fired an AK-47 assault rifle during a disciplinary hearing in Hampshire.

Matthew Wells, 42, has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

It follows an incident at Gibraltar Barracks in Minley, Blackwater, Hampshire, in which a warrant officer allegedly suffered a hand injury.

Sgt Wells has been remanded in custody to appear at Winchester Crown Court.

A police spokeswoman said the case would be heard on 23 February, 2009.

Combat Engineer School

It is understood that Sgt Wells is a member of the Civil and Military Cooperation group (CIMIC), which has returned from Afghanistan.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "We can confirm that a soldier has been arrested following an incident at Minley.

"Hampshire police are investigating the incident. It would therefore be inappropriate for the Ministry of Defence to comment further whilst this is ongoing."

Gibraltar Barracks is home to the Combat Engineer School.