Speeding crook caught with sawn-off shotgun after wild chase in Birmingham
Locked down and locked up
Police swooped on Tatendra Masawi after spotting him speeding through Birmingham city centre during April’s lockdown. The 28-year-old was driving a Peugeot fitted with cloned plates when officers gave chase.
Desperate escape attempt
Masawi slammed the brakes on Bow Street and bolted, tossing a rucksack as he fled on foot. But his getaway was short-lived. Officers caught him at the Windmill Street junction.
Deadly haul uncovered
On Masawi, officers found £900 in cash and cannabis. The discarded rucksack held a sawn-off shotgun, seven live and five fired cartridges – all seized by police.
Justice served
Masawi, from Coventry’s Hollicombe Terrace, was jailed for five years at Birmingham Crown Court on 30 October. He was convicted of possession of a firearm, cannabis possession, and driving without insurance.
“This was a dangerous weapon and ammunition which we’ve managed to take off the streets,” said DC Ed Ketterer from the force CID. “We’ve seen all too often the devastation they can cause in communities. Masawi thought he could get away from our officers, but there was never going to be an easy getaway and he is now behind bars.”
