Gunman Caught During Police Raid Caged

A gunman arrested by gang-busting cops – who found a loaded firearm stuffed inside a sock inside a kitchen cupboard – has been jailed for fifteen years.

Jonothan Odokama, 25, of Tennison Road, South Norwood tried to blame his 25 year-old girlfriend, who was pregnant at the time of the raid, but this was rejected by the jury.

He was convicted at Croydon Crown Court of possession of a firearm, with intent to endanger life, and possession of ammunition with intent to endanger life at his home address on November 11, last year.

As part of a proactive, intelligence-led operation, officers from the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) Trident Gang Crime Command, supported by the MPS Specialist Firearms Unit, executed a search warrant at the property.

A search of the address revealed a Baikal semi automatic handgun secreted on top of a kitchen cupboard, hidden in a sock.

The handgun was loaded with eight rounds of ammunition. 



Both Odokama and his girlfriend were arrested at the address and charged with firearms offences.

His girlfriend was later acquitted at court. 



A third man, 25, was also arrested at the property, he was bailed to return and later released no further action.



Detective Inspector Paul Dorey of Trident Gang Crime Command said: "The arrest and conviction of Jonothan Odokama demonstrates Trident's continued commitment to target dangerous criminals concerned in gangs and firearm criminality. 



“This successful prosecution also highlights the dangers posed to female partners of gang members who are used to store firearms.

“Even when confronted with significant evidence regarding his possession of the firearm, Odokama attempted to blame his girlfriend.



"However upon hearing all evidence the jury found him guilty of firearm offences and acquitted his girlfriend.



"I hope that the sentence given to Odokama will send a clear message to those concerned in gun crime including females storing guns.

“Trident officers will relentlessly pursue them and they can expect to be identified, brought before the courts."