Nottinghamshire, UK – Two men have been jailed after police intercepted their vehicle and discovered guns and ammunition they had collected from Sheffield earlier that day.
Police Pursuit Leads to Firearms Discovery
On March 30, 2023, at around 9:45 PM, Nottinghamshire Police officers spotted a suspected cloned Ford Ranger at Trowell Services on the M1. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused to pull over, leading to a brief high-speed chase that ended when the Ford Ranger crashed into a lorry.
Following the crash, police arrested:
Sheera Virk – The driver of the vehicle
Joseph Steele – The passenger
Gun Smuggling Operation Foiled
A search of the vehicle revealed firearms and ammunition, which police believe the duo had collected from Sheffield earlier that day. The discovery led to an investigation into organized crime networks involved in illegal firearms trafficking.
Convictions and Sentencing
Both Virk and Steele have since been sentenced for their roles in the illegal possession and transportation of firearms. Their arrest marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to crack down on gun crime in Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire.
Police Crack Down on Gun Crime
A spokesperson for Nottinghamshire Police emphasized that the force remains committed to targeting criminals involved in firearms trafficking.
“Firearms in the wrong hands pose a serious threat to public safety. This operation highlights our ongoing efforts to remove dangerous weapons from our streets and disrupt organized crime networks.”
Public Encouraged to Report Suspicious Activity
Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activity related to firearms or organized crime. Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
