Gunman Dressed as Delivery Driver Busted After Brutal Struggle
Vicente Forde, 32, from Greenwich, has been locked up for nearly seven years after a terrifying shotgun attack in Crystal Palace. The delivery driver disguise was just a cover—Forde pulled a loaded shotgun on an unsuspecting victim in July 2020.
Masked and Armed: The Shocking Attack
On 13 July 2020 at 9:30am, Forde showed up at a Crystal Palace home wearing a hi-vis jacket and carrying a cardboard box. When the door began to open, he dropped the box and revealed a shotgun hidden inside his jacket, pointing it straight at the victim.
The man, home with his young daughter and on the phone at the time, grabbed the gun and struggled fiercely with Forde. Despite threats to stab him, punches, and kicks, the victim refused to let go. Eventually, he prised the shotgun away and hurled it under a nearby car.
Help arrived quickly. Passersby and nearby builders joined the fight, holding Forde down until police swooped in. The gun was live and loaded with two cartridges.
Justice Served: Long Prison Term for Firearm Offences
Forde pleaded guilty at Croydon Crown Court to multiple offences, including possession of a prohibited firearm and intent to cause fear of violence. He was sentenced on 29 July to six years and nine months behind bars. The sentences for other firearm offences will run concurrently.
The victim suffered bruising and a broken nose but his brave actions prevented a potential tragedy.
Detective Praises Public Heroism Amid London Firearms Crackdown
Forde’s removal from the streets means London is safer,” said Detective Constable Imran Hansraj. “The victim showed incredible bravery to fight off a disguised attacker armed with a lethal weapon. Passersby who helped also deserve huge credit.”
Specialist Met officers have ramped up patrols and weapon sweeps across London to stop violent crime. Since 26 July, they’ve been targeting firearm offenders to make the capital a safer place.
