Woman Hunt Ends at Hotel After Imitation Gun Threat
Two women fled to a city centre hotel on Tuesday, 31 October, after being followed down the High Street by a man wielding what looked like a small gun.
Fake Gun Sparks Fear in Café Robbery
The man then stormed into a nearby café, brandishing the weapon to intimidate staff. Shocked customers watched as he forced one to hand over cash at gunpoint, fearing for their lives.
Luckily, Kent Police quickly intervened. Armed officers arrested 31-year-old Esmatullah Sharfi, a man with no fixed address. A thorough search revealed the gun was a cigarette lighter cleverly disguised as a firearm.
Robber Caught and Jailed for Four Years
Sharfi faced multiple charges: robbery and three counts of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to frighten. He pleaded guilty at canterbury/" title="Canterbury" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Canterbury Crown Court and was sentenced on 6 December 2023 to four years behind bars.
Detective Constable Matthew Burridge, East Kent CID, said: “Sharfi traumatised his victims by making them believe their lives were at risk, using what appeared to be a real gun. Imitation weapons can look terrifyingly real, and he exploited that fear for his gain.”
“This sentence sends a clear message — anyone threatening violence with fake weapons will face serious consequences in Kent.”
Support Available for Victims of Violence
If you’re a victim of violence or need advice on Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), check local support services and use the online reporting service. Always call 999 in emergencies.
