Gun Converted from Blank Fired in Edenbridge Street Brawl – Man Jailed for Five Years
A violent fight between rival gangs in Edenbridge took a terrifying turn when a blank firing pistol, illegally converted to fire live rounds, was discharged during the brawl. Muhamet Mahmutaj, 25, pulled the trigger but miraculously caused no injuries. Now, he faces a hefty five-year prison sentence for the dangerous stunt.
Gang Clash Turns Deadly
The chaos erupted on May 2, 2024, near Stanbridge Road and Pine Grove, sparked by a drugs dispute. Weapons including knives and even a catapult were brandished during the street showdown.
The Converted Gun and Arrest
Mahmutaj, from Giraud Street, East London, brought a converted blank firing pistol to the fight. He attempted to fire it at rivals, but a misfired blank round jammed the barrel, preventing injury. Police arriving at the scene found Mahmutaj alongside a friend who had suffered a stabbing. Initially, Mahmutaj claimed unknown assailants were responsible.
However, officers soon discovered the illegal firearm nearby, with an 8mm live round stuck in its barrel. Investigations linked the gun and Mahmutaj to a white Audi involved in criminal damage to rival gang cars the previous day.
Conviction and Sentence
Mahmutaj was charged with possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and affray. Despite pleading not guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, the evidence led to his conviction. On December 13, 2024, he was sentenced to five years behind bars.
Police Condemn Dangerous Behaviour
“Mahmutaj had every intention of using this converted weapon and attempted to fire it at other people in a residential area, including at very close range,” said Detective Inspector Paul Raines.
“Fortunately, the blank round misfired and jammed the barrel. Brandishing any weapon on our streets is completely unacceptable. We will pursue and prosecute anyone risking public safety in Kent to the full extent of the law. We welcome the custodial sentence passed by the courts.”
