Police seize sub-machine gun in Hackney
A deadly sub-machine gun capable of firing hundreds of rounds a minute has been discovered hidden in Hackney.
The weapon, together with four rounds of unfired ammunition, which were concealed in a plastic bag, were discovered by firearms detectives hunting for weapons in Bodney Road, Lower Clapton.
Detectives from the dedicated firearms team at Operation Bantam, together with the gangs unit and problem solving team, had search warrants for three properties.
The gun is a 9mm Parabellum calibre Sterling Mark III sub-machine gun with a shoulder stock, which appeared to be in working order.
The barrel was less than 30 centimetres.
According to firearms experts, the model of gun dates from the Second World War and just afterwards.
Detectives are still investigating whether this sub-machine gun has been involved in any crime.
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Hackney borough commander Steve Bending said: “Only last week we were reminded of the devastating consequences of gun crime, with the sentencing of two men to 32 years’ imprisonment for the heartless murder of Agnes Sina-Inakoju.
“It is important to remember that the few involved in gang-related violence in no way represent the vast majority of young people in Hackney, who are decent, hardworking and talented individuals.
“That is why the work to combat gang violence remains our key priority.
“Hackney has seen a 43 per cent reduction in gun crime in the past year and a reduction of 20 per cent in serious youth violence. While this is encouraging we are determined to further reduce gang- related violence, with the support of partners and communities working with us.”
The find comes just weeks after police found four knives and 12 meat skewers hidden behind headstones in undergrowth at a churchyard after they searched public areas at the Frampton Park estate and St Thomas’s Place.
n Police have charged a 20-year man with possession of a firearm with a barrel shorter than 30cm. A 16-year-old has been charged with the same offence and a 17-year-old faces a charge of possession of ammunition.
