London Man Jailed Over Shocking Shotgun Attack Disguised as Delivery
Vicente Forde, 32, from Greenwich, has been locked up for six years and nine months after a terrifying shotgun attack in Crystal Palace. The thug posed as a delivery driver, sparking a violent struggle when he tried to intimidate a man at his home.
Masked Gunman’s Bold Delivery Ruse
On the morning of 13 July 2020, Forde rocked up in a hi-vis jacket, carrying an empty Amazon box. He knocked on a doorstep in Crystal Palace Road, seemingly like any other courier.
But as soon as the door opened, Forde dropped the box, pulled out a loaded shotgun hidden inside his jacket, and aimed it at the occupant, who was home with his young daughter and on the phone.
Heroic Victim Fights Back
The victim grabbed the gun and a desperate struggle ensued. Despite Forde’s threats to stab him and violent kicks and punches, the man refused to let go. He shouted for help while battling the attacker and finally threw the weapon under a nearby car.
Passersby, including men working on a nearby building, rushed to help and pinned Forde down until police arrived. Officers seized the loaded shotgun with two live rounds.
Justice Served as Forde Sentenced
Forde pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a prohibited weapon, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. At Croydon Crown Court, he was handed a combined sentence of six years and nine months.
Detective Constable Imran Hansraj said: “Forde’s sentencing has taken a dangerous man off our streets. The victim showed incredible bravery to disarm him, and the public’s quick response was crucial. London is safer for it.”
Met Police Crack Down on Firearms Crime
This arrest comes amid a city-wide crackdown by the Met Police, launching weapons sweeps, warrants, and patrols targeting violent offenders armed with firearms. The operation aims to snatch lethal weapons from London’s streets and tackle rising violent crime.
