Two men have been jailed over the shooting of a good Samaritan who was trying to break up a brawl at a wake – but police believe the gunman is still at large nine months on.
Michael Otshudi, of North Road, Islington, was jailed for 18 months and Joseph Smith, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to four years at Blackfriars Crown Court today.
Otshudi, 37, had pleaded guilty to violent disorder and Smith, 27, had admitted possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear and violent disorder at a previous hearing.
The shooting happened at a wake at Andover Commmunity Centre, Corker Walk, in Holloway shortly before midnight on May 13, 2015, that the pair attended as part of a larger group.
According to police, trouble started between the group and another man, resulting in the man being assaulted.
Their victim tried to intervene and protect him but was shot.
The group then fled and the victim was taken to a hospital in south London where he was treated for serious injuries. He is still recovering.
Otshudi was arrested after DNA from blood was found outside the centre and identified in CCTV.
He was finally arrested after his image was circulated and he was recognised by a police officer.
Det Const Irfan Khalifa, from the Trident and Area Crime Command, said: “This was a reckless act, resulting in serious injury to an innocent person.
“Trident Gang Command has today secured convictions against two individuals and now appeals to the public to help identify those yet to be brought to justice.”
Police have released CCTV images of three other men they are hoping to trace in connection with the shooting, including the man they believe shot the victim.
Smith was sentenced to 24 months for violent disorder and four years for possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear, with both sentences running concurrently.
Anyone who thinks they can help is urged to call 0208 358 0045 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
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