Two Met police officers who arrested an armed gang under repeated gunfire have won a national bravery award.
Pc Alan O’Connor and Dc Charmain Brenyah saw a car being driven suspiciously as they patrolled London.
The gang opened fire through the windows as the officers gave chase. Three men were arrested after they crashed and were later convicted of a series of cash-in-transit robberies.
The officers were presented with the bravery awards last night. Dc Brenyah, 32, said: “It wasn’t until one of the men got out of the car and pointed the gun at me that I realised they were armed. I ducked down and they made off again. We followed and they carried on shooting through the windows at us but we were determined to catch them.
“It was very dangerous but I’m so proud we got them off the streets. It’s great to be nominated for this award. It’s the highlight of my career so far.”
Pc O’Connor said: “We didn’t think about it. Instinct and adrenaline kicked in and we kept chasing, despite the gunfire. We were very lucky not to be hit. It didn’t sink in till later. The shooter got 17 years and the other two were also convicted, which was a great result.”
