Gunfire Erupts as Met Cops Chase Suspects in Colindale
Chaos broke out on Thursday, 18 March at around 7.10pm when ten plain-clothes officers from the Met’s North West Violence Suppression Unit confronted a group in the Grahame Park Estate, Colindale. The officers had been called to break up a large gathering but were met with a dangerous turn of events.
As the officers approached six local men, the group bolted. A foot chase ensued.
Shots Fired at Unarmed Police
During the pursuit, one suspect reportedly fired several shots at the police, who were unarmed. Miraculously, no one was hurt, but the officers were left shaken by the ordeal.
Three Arrested, Investigation Underway
- A 49-year-old man was nabbed nearby, suspected of constructive possession of a firearm, assaulting an emergency worker, and cannabis possession. However, he’s no longer linked to the main group.
- A 33-year-old man was arrested in Surrey on 4 April. He’s currently on bail for the shooting but charged with possession with intent to supply and recalled to prison.
- A 26-year-old man was arrested on 6 April in North London in connection with the incident and has been bailed to return.
Detective Chief Inspector Condemns Attack
“Any level of violence against officers who serve the public and keep our communities safe will not be tolerated. We are committed to finding those involved and taking all appropriate action against them,” said Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Alger.
“The repercussions of this split-second action could have been grave – we could potentially have been dealing with a murder investigation. Nobody should go to work fearing they may never return home.
“We’re urging anyone with info – no matter how small – to come forward. Security, dash cam or door cam footage could provide vital clues.”
How to Help Police Hunt Gunmen
Anyone who saw the incident or knows anything about those involved should call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD6602/18MAR. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
In the last year, assaults on Met officers have surged by nearly 19%, with 7,191 recorded attacks. The risk and trauma officers face daily while protecting Londoners is staggering.
