Just after 1am on September 5, 2019, gunshots were heard in a quiet Southampton street, prompting police to rush to the scene. At a nearby address on River Walk, officers discovered a large cannabis stash along with bags of the Class B drug dumped outside.
On November 24, 2020, four burglars were sentenced at Southampton Crown Court to a total of 25 years in prison. The gang admitted to targeting a cannabis factory disguised as a flat in River Walk, aiming to steal the drugs for profit.
The jail terms handed down were as follows: Fardeen Hamidy, 26, of Bursledon Road, received eight years and eight months for conspiracy to burgle and possession of a firearm with intent. Christy Flaherty, 27, from Southampton, was sentenced to eight years for conspiracy to burgle, firearm possession, and involvement in cocaine supply. Robert Johnston, 25, of Tennyson Avenue, was given five years and four months for burglary conspiracy and firearm possession. Ken Mulangala, 18, from Barking, Essex, received three years for conspiracy to commit burglary.
Residents reported hearing gunfire during the attempted burglary, which ended with bags of cannabis abandoned in the street. The gang fled empty-handed but were later tracked down by Hampshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit.
Police commented, “This case highlights the violence and harm associated with drug supply. What happened on River Walk was terrifying for residents who heard gunshots in their neighbourhood.”
Authorities have issued a plea to the community, warning that drug cultivation and supply fuel serious violence and cause devastation to local areas. They urge anyone who notices suspicious or drug-related activity to come forward to help keep neighbourhoods safe.
Originally published by UKNIP.
