Gang's 'Gun Factory' Busted, Firearms Converted

A criminal gang that converted blank firearms into live weapons has been dismantled, leading to significant prison sentences for its members. Gary Worthington, 45, and Perry Phillips, 56, both from Old Windsor, Berkshire, were sentenced to seven years and two months in prison at Reading Crown Court. They had previously pleaded guilty to weapons offences.

Investigations by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) uncovered a "makeshift gun factory" in Datchet, Berkshire. Officers also found a storage garage in Windsor containing 56 converted firearms and ammunition. The gang's operation involved sourcing Turkish-manufactured blank firing pistols, converting them into live handguns, and then selling them on.

Paul Lynam, linked to Worthington and Phillips, received a sentence of 16 years and six months in February for his role. SEROCU highlighted that Worthington and Phillips played a crucial part by purchasing and transporting the illegal weapons and ammunition, thereby supporting the organised crime group's activities. The successful operation underscores efforts to protect communities from serious and organised crime, particularly the illicit use of firearms.