Converted blank firing gun used during fight between rival groups in Edenbridge

A blank firing gun was converted into a deadly weapon and discharged during a fight between rival groups in Edenbridge.

The weapon was fired by Muhamet Mahmutaj and although it caused no injuries he has now been sentenced to five years in prison.

Mahmutaj was one of several men involved in a street disturbance on 2 May 2024, which was believed to be linked to a dispute over drugs.

Disturbance

Fighting broke out in areas around Stanbridge Road and Pine Grove and the incident included assaults with a catapult and a knife. 

Mahmutaj was carrying a blank firing pistol, which had been converted to be capable of firing live rounds.

He made attempts to shoot at the rival males, but it failed to discharge.

Attending officers located Mahmutaj at the scene. He was with a friend who had been stabbed during the fight and he initially claimed they had been set upon by people they didn’t know.

Searches led to the recovery of the gun nearby. An 8mm round which had misfired was found within the barrel.

An investigation conclusively matched the weapon to Mahmutaj.

Enquiries also connected him to a white Audi, which on the previous day was linked to incidents of criminal damage to cars belonging to the rival group.

Trial 

Mahmutaj, 25, of Giraud Street, East London was charged with possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence. He was also charged with affray.

He pleaded not guilty at Maidstone Crown Court but was convicted after a trial and then sentenced on 13 December. 

Detective Inspector Paul Raines said:

‘Mahmutaj had every intention of using this converted weapon and attempted to fire it at other people in a residential area, including at very close range. Fortunately, during the incident only a blank round misfired, which jammed the barrel. ‘Brandishing any weapon on our streets is completely unacceptable and anyone bringing firearms into Kent and risking the safety of the public will be robustly pursued and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. We welcome the custodial sentence passed by the courts.‘