Shocking CCTV footage released by West Midlands Police shows a masked gang carrying out a violent armed attack on City Computers. The footage captures the terrifying moment. City Computers is a computer shop in Smethwick. The incident occurred on January 12 last year, around midday, on Bertram Road. The footage shows two gang members brandishing and firing shotguns after stepping out of a silver Ford Fiesta. Another member smashed the shop’s front with an axe. A fourth man, also armed with an axe, entered the premises shortly after.
Masked Gang Attack in Smethwick Leaves Two Injured
The violent attack left two individuals injured. One victim sustained a gunshot wound to the arm, while another suffered a neck injury. Miraculously, both injuries were not life-threatening. Photos taken the day after the attack show shattered glass and damage to the shop, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Key Gang Members Sentenced for Smethwick Shooting
Jamal Hussain, aged 22, from Walsall, was identified as the driver of the getaway vehicle, a silver Ford Fiesta. Following his arrest, Hussain admitted to his role in the attack. On September 12, he was sentenced to nine years and two months in prison at Worcester Crown Court.
The sentencing of Hussain comes after the earlier convictions of four other men involved in the attack. In August, Haider Shabir, aged 21, was jailed for 14 years, while Mohammed Uwais Latif, aged 24, received a nine-year and ten-month sentence. Mohammed Tayyib Wajid, aged 26, was sentenced to 21 months, and Ahmed Aumair, aged 21, received a 12-year and six-month prison term in April.
Additional Sentencing Expected
Azeem Hussain, aged 26, is expected to be sentenced later this year, completing the prosecution of all those involved in the planned attack.
Police Condemn the Violent Smethwick Incident
Detective Inspector Francis Nock from the Major Crime Unit condemned the attack, stating, “All six men involved in this planned armed attack have been convicted. Jamal Hussain was a key player in this operation and has received a lengthy jail sentence to reflect this. This could have easily been a fatal attack, but miraculously, the injuries of the two victims were not serious.”
He added, “Weapons have no place on our streets, and we will continue to bring those to justice who think it’s acceptable to use them to bring violence into our communities.”
West Midlands Police Committed to Community Safety
This terrifying gang attack in Smethwick serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against violent crime in the West Midlands. West Midlands Police remain dedicated to ensuring the safety of local residents. They are committed to bringing perpetrators of such dangerous acts to justice.
Conclusion: Justice Served in Smethwick Armed Attack
The swift response of West Midlands Police and the courts was crucial. It has ensured that all involved in this horrifying crime are held accountable. The commitment to removing weapons from the streets and safeguarding the community in Smethwick and beyond remains unwavering.