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A 20-year-old man has been handed a significant prison sentence after perpetrating a shocking attack on a moped rider in Brixton, South London.

Christian Assi, hailing from Lewisham, was sentenced to 11 years behind bars at Croydon Crown Court on Monday, February 19. The sentencing came following Assi’s conviction for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. Additionally, he received concurrent jail terms of five years for grievous bodily harm (GBH) and 22 months for possession of a shotgun without a certificate.

The incident, which occurred on May 12, 2022, sent shockwaves through the community. At approximately 7:15 pm, Assi, riding as a passenger in a Range Rover, trailed an 18-year-old moped rider along Brixton Hill. In a premeditated move, the vehicle deliberately collided with the rider, sending him crashing to the ground.

Seizing the opportunity, Assi exited the vehicle and callously discharged a shotgun at the defenceless victim, striking him in the arm. The severity of the injury necessitated immediate medical attention, leading the victim to undergo emergency surgery at a nearby hospital.

Undeterred by the consequences of his actions, Assi fled the scene, still wielding the firearm in full view of horrified bystanders. Surveillance footage captured his brazen escape, during which he was observed handing the weapon to an accomplice before disappearing into the bustling streets.

The swift and diligent response from Police officers led to the arrest and subsequent conviction of Assi. Detectives, aided by CCTV evidence, traced his movements following the attack, ultimately culminating in his apprehension on June 8, 2022.

Reflecting on the severity of the crime and the threat posed by individuals like Assi, Detective Constable Chris Bryant, who spearheaded the investigation, emphasized the unwavering commitment of law enforcement in safeguarding the community from such acts of violence.

“Assi is a dangerous individual who had no regard for either his victim or the wider public,” stated Detective Bryant. “We will not tolerate such wanton violence and continue to relentlessly pursue those intent on carrying and using guns on our streets.”

Meanwhile, 53-year-old Edmund Sido, who was implicated in the aftermath of the incident, received a prison sentence of 33 months after pleading guilty to possession of a shotgun.