Stolen Merc Packed with Guns Sparks Police Crackdown
A Mercedes CLK nicked in Dagenham back in August 2018 sparked a major firearms bust after it was found abandoned in Colchester two months later — loaded with illegal weapons.
Luxury Car Hauls Firearms Arsenal
The sleek Merc, rocking fake number plates, was discovered on Daniell Drive in Colchester. When cops searched it, they uncovered a chilling haul: a .22 rifle, three sawn-off shotguns, and ammo for two of the guns.
DNA and Fingerprints Seal the Pair’s Fate
Fingerprints linked to Oliver Simons and Lewis Marsh were found on the wrapping of a sawn-off shotgun, with their DNA spotted on two other firearms. Police swiftly nabbed the duo, charging them with firearms offences in June 2019.
Colchester Court Hands Down Jail Time
- Lewis Marsh, 24, pleaded guilty to multiple charges including possession of prohibited weapons, a self-loading rifle, and handling stolen goods in October.
- Oliver Simons, 27, was found guilty of two counts of possessing prohibited weapons after a December trial.
On Monday 14 December, both were sentenced to equally tough terms — eight-and-a-half years behind bars.
Police Vow to Keep Guns Off the Streets
“These guns could have caused immense harm in the wrong hands and will now be destroyed,” said Detective Inspector Steve Nelson. “Fortunately, few will fall victim to gun crime thanks to relentless work targeting organised crime and violent offenders.”
The seized weapons, ammunition, and encrypted phones are set for destruction to prevent any future danger.
