Six Jailed for Wokingham ‘Gun Factory’ Plot
Last Friday, six criminals—including a delivery driver and a former child football star—were locked up for nearly 100 years combined over a shocking ‘gun factory’ operation inside a Wokingham townhouse. The Reading Crown Court sentenced them for conspiring to reactivate handguns and supply them to gangs across southern England.
Raid Uncovers Arsenal in Wokingham Home
On October 31, 2022, police raided Benjamin Phillips’ Wokingham home, seizing 13 working handguns, ammunition, and numerous gun parts. Three suspects, including Phillips, Kenneth Britton, and Katie Lee, were arrested on the spot, with others linked later.
Judge Kirsty Real led the trial, describing the ring as a “sophisticated and lucrative” criminal enterprise spreading firearms through Bracknell, London, and southwest England.
The Gang and Their Roles
- Kenneth Britton, 34, Bracknell – Ringleader and former footballing talent.
- Benjamin Phillips, 43, Wokingham – Ringleader operating the ‘gun factory’ from his home.
- Mark Dyson, 43, Crowthorne – Delivery driver smuggling guns and ammo in his Volkswagen Touran.
- Jacob Peters, 37, Reading – Involved in transport and storage, connected to settling a drug debt.
- Danny Walker, 34, Bracknell – Procurer of weapons, previously jailed for threatening behaviour.
- Katie Lee, 31, Sandhurst – Britton’s ex-partner, acted as a driver and low-level assistant.
Long Sentences for Firearms Ring
All six were convicted of conspiring to sell prohibited weapons and ammunition, alongside other charges. Britton and Phillips were identified as masterminds behind the operation. Dyson claimed his role came from a “deal” after receiving the gang’s vehicle as a gift.
Judge Real noted Lee’s involvement was limited, highlighting an abusive relationship but ruling she was not directly coerced. Each will serve at least half their sentence before eligibility for release on licence.
This bust sends a clear message: illegal gun factories in quiet suburbs won’t go unnoticed.
