Gunman Rams Brent Estate, Shoots Teen Multiple Times
A violent thug terrorised a Brent estate, driving around with a loaded firearm before shooting a 19-year-old multiple times. Waele Bittar, 20, who has no fixed address, was caught and sentenced to 13 years behind bars at Croydon Crown Court on Monday, 6 April.
Guilty of Grievous Bodily Harm, Not Attempted Murder
Bittar was found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He was acquitted of attempted murder. He also pleaded guilty to common assault and offences linked to cannabis cultivation and supply.
The Night of Terror: December 3, 2018
- Around 10.15pm, police raced to Williams Way, Sudbury, after gunshots were reported.
- A 19-year-old man was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his legs but survived with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Witnesses saw a dark car speed off, later linked to Bittar.
Specialist detectives launched an intense investigation. CCTV footage, mobile phone tracking, and vehicle movements pointed straight to Bittar.
Violent Day Unfolds: Assault and Shooting
That same afternoon, Bittar was caught on CCTV assaulting his ex-girlfriend nearby. Following multiple phone calls, Bittar circled the estate three times, gun in hand, until he spotted his victim.
“Bittar is a dangerous individual who callously gunned down a 19-year-old man in the street,” said Detective Sergeant John Cowell. “He subjected his ex-partner to severe abuse just hours earlier.”
Bittar reportedly targeted the victim believing he was romantically involved with his ex. When the victim stepped in to protect her, Bittar opened fire through his car door.
Drugs, Cannabis Factory and Criminal Links
Police also found Bittar linked to a massive cannabis factory with over 150 plants in Edgware, Harrow. Alongside another man, Enea Helmesi, 27, he was involved in drug cultivation and supply.
Helmesi pleaded guilty in May 2019 and was jailed for 40 months for multiple drug and criminal property offences.
Justice Served: Dangerous Criminal Behind Bars
Bittar, who refused to answer police questions, now faces a long prison sentence for his violent rampage and drug crimes.
“This type of behaviour is unacceptable and the Met will continue to crackdown on criminals who think they’re above the law,” added DS Cowell.
