Two men have been jailed for their roles in the illegal gun trade following a data-driven investigation by the Metropolitan Police.
Eric Aram, 35, of Hayes, was sentenced to 21 years and 7 months, while Mohammed Guetfi, 33, of Hackney, received 14 years and 4 months at Isleworth Crown Court. Both were convicted of possessing firearms and supplying cannabis.
The investigation began in April 2023 when Specialist Crime officers found a converted blank-firing handgun in a Bayswater flat. Forensic analysis linked Aram to the weapon, leading to a raid on his home in November, where police recovered firearm conversion equipment and £1,000 in hidden cash.
Digital evidence revealed Aram as a prolific gun and cannabis dealer, with Guetfi acting as his “right-hand man,” according to prosecutors. Aram was arrested in November 2023, and Guetfi was identified and charged in January 2024.
Detective Inspector Sam Bennett, who led the investigation, said: “On average, firearms are linked to over a thousand offences on London’s streets each year. Many of the guns used are reactivated pistols, converted by criminal gangs and dealers.
“Investigators used extensive digital evidence to bring these two offenders to justice. This meant they were able to secure convictions against both men, despite the fact that no guns were found on the defendants themselves.
“These convictions send out a clear message that the illegal gun trade will not be tolerated in our city.”
