Police say town's 'gang warfare' inquiry at an end

Detectives say investigations in a series of "violent incidents" across a town two years ago have drawn to a close.

A senior officer said "gang warfare" was brought to the streets of Watford in the summer of 2024.

Det Insp Mark Butler said the sentencing of two women from north-west London this week marked the end of an "extensive and challenging" inquiry.

Police said 12 people have been convicted with jail sentences totalling more than 100 years handed out.

"We pursued every lead, pieced together hours of evidence and ensured that all those responsible were put before the courts," said Butler, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire major crime unit.

"I want to thank everyone involved for their relentless work.

"These results demonstrate our commitment to tackling violence and ensuring our communities are kept safe."

At St Albans Crown Court on Monday, Selin Johnson, 25, of High Meadow Crescent, Colindale, and Zarmina Galmne, 26, of Village Way, Pinner, were each handed an 18-month jail sentence after being convicted of perverting the course of justice.

Both women were released due to time served on remand while waiting for their trial.

In February, Hekmat Galmne, 27, of Village Way, Pinner, was jailed for 28 years at Reading Crown Court after being found guilty of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

In June, Almamie Jawara, 19, of Leveret Close, Watford, was jailed for 22 years at St Albans Crown Court after being found guilty of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

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