A violent street fight between rival groups in Edenbridge escalated into a dangerous confrontation when a blank firing gun, converted to fire live rounds, was discharged. The weapon, wielded by Muhamet Mahmutaj, caused no injuries but has led to his conviction and a five-year prison sentence.
The incident occurred on May 2, 2024, and was believed to be linked to a dispute over drugs. Fighting broke out around Stanbridge Road and Pine Grove, involving weapons such as a knife and a catapult.
The Weapon and Arrest
Mahmutaj, 25, of Giraud Street, East London, carried a converted blank firing pistol during the altercation. Though he attempted to fire at rivals, the weapon failed to discharge due to a misfired blank round that jammed the barrel.
When police arrived, Mahmutaj was found at the scene with a friend who had been stabbed. He initially claimed they had been attacked by unknown individuals. However, a subsequent search recovered the firearm nearby, along with an 8mm round lodged in the barrel.
Investigators linked the weapon to Mahmutaj and tied him to a white Audi, which had been involved in incidents of criminal damage to cars belonging to the rival group the day before.
Legal Proceedings
Mahmutaj was charged with possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and affray. Despite pleading not guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, he was convicted after a trial and sentenced on December 13, 2024, to five years in prison.
Police Statement
Detective Inspector Paul Raines condemned Mahmutaj’s actions, emphasizing the dangers posed to the community:
“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. Fortunately, during the incident only a blank round misfired, which jammed the barrel.
“Brandishing any weapon on our streets is completely unacceptable, and anyone bringing firearms into Kent and risking the safety of the public will be robustly pursued and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. We welcome the custodial sentence passed by the courts.”
