Bow: Woman jailed after trying to hide handgun and bullets in bedroom

An east London woman who tried to hide a firearm and bullets in her bedroom has been jailed for five years.

Joy Hyde-Coleman, 29, of Blondin Street, Tower Hamlets, was jailed on Tuesday, having previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition in May.

The court heard how detectives began investigating Hyde-Coleman after an “intelligence-led” operation.

When they raided her address in Bow, they saw her attempting to discard a black handgun in the bedroom.

Officers found the gun alongside several rounds of ammunition and multiple mobile phones.

Detectives also reviewed 24 hours' worth of CCTV footage and phone data to build up a case against the 29-year-old.

Met Detective Inspector Damian Hill, who led the investigation, said: “At the heart of tackling firearms offences is our commitment to community safety.

“We work tirelessly to investigate these crimes, ensuring that those who possess dangerous weapons are brought to justice. This not only protects our neighbourhoods but also builds trust between the police and public.

“We are dedicated to delivering results for the people we serve. By focusing on thorough investigations and targeting criminals, we’re reducing crime and making our city safer for those who live here.”

In the past fifteen years, firearm offences in London have reached a record low, the Met said.

Since March 2023, incidents of firearm offences have decreased from 196 to 145, the force said.