Man found with 'gun' in Tube search jailed

A man caught carrying a replica gun during a routine search at a Tube station has been jailed for five years.

Dwayne Dinnall, 26, was caught by British Transport police and Met officers as they carried out an operation to combat antisocial behaviour and violence.

He was stopped and searched after appearing to hesitate when he saw police by the exit barriers at Dagenham Tube station.

Prior to searching him, an officer asked Dinnall whether he had anything on him that could cause injury, to which he replied "no".

While searching a small black bag Dinnall was carrying, officers found a 7in steel kitchen knife hidden inside and the gas-powered gun. The weapon - wrapped in black cloth - was capable of firing projectiles but not live ammunition.

A black mask, similar to those worn by cyclists, and a small quantity of cannabis were also found.

Dinnall, of Dagenham, who had several previous weaponsrelated convictions, admitted possession of a firearm and was sentenced at Southwark crown court yesterday.