Noble Nwokocha, 24, a drill rapper from Edmonton, North London, has been sentenced to four years and eight months in prison after bringing a loaded, converted blank-firing revolver to a probation appointment. The weapon, packed with three bullets, was discovered by police during a stop at the meeting.
Arrest at probation appointment
Nwokocha, also known as ‘Drilla’ from the 3x3 drill group, was on licence from prison at the time of his arrest. He had previously been convicted for selling heroin and cocaine in Essex in 2023. Police apprehended him during his probation meeting as part of an investigation into alleged drug supply and child criminal exploitation offences.
During the stop, officers found the converted blank-firing revolver inside his coat. Nwokocha protested, claiming, “That’s not mine,” but police proceeded with the arrest. He was subsequently charged with several offences, including possession of a firearm, which he later admitted to.
Claim of coercion by gang associates
Nwokocha claimed he had been forced to hold the weapon by gang associates. He stated that he was approached by the gang while sleeping in the communal toilets of a park in London, alleging that they threatened to stab him if he did not take the gun and find a place to hide it. He said he had intended to hand in the weapon when he attended the probation office. This basis was not accepted by the prosecution but was not opposed for sentencing purposes.
Police response and sentencing
DS Jon Kemp, of Operation Raptor, commented on the case: “Those involved in drug-related crime and associated weapons offending know Essex is a very risky place for them to operate. Operation Raptor remains relentless in identifying and targeting those involved in county lines activity, and this marked the second time Essex Police had taken action against Nwokocha for serious criminality.
“Following his previous conviction, he had an opportunity to move away from crime. Instead, he continued to associate himself with individuals and activity linked to drug dealing, violence and weapons offending.
“Nwokocha chose to project an image associated with weapons, criminality and status. The reality that emerged through these proceedings was very different and far from glamourous.
“The image often portrayed through music videos and social media is far removed from the reality we encounter as police officers. The reality is arrest, imprisonment, exploitation, violence and the loss of freedom.
“Even after release from prison, offenders remain subject to licence conditions and continued scrutiny. This case demonstrates that those who choose to become involved in organised criminality can expect to face serious consequences, and we will continue to pursue those who bring drugs, violence and weapons into our communities.”
Nwokocha was sentenced to four years and eight months behind bars for the firearm offence.
