A MAN has been jailed after pointing a gun at unarmed police officers in Hillingdon.

Yonis Abdinur, 20 of Cornelia Drive, Hayes, was imprisoned for five years for possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence at Isleworth Crown Court on Friday 12 July 2013.

He had pleaded guilty at the same court on 13 June 2013.

On 8 April 2013, two Hillingdon borough police officers were on plain clothes patrol in an unmarked car in Dallas Terrace, Hillingdon.

The officers had reason to stop the Ford Focus that Abdinur was travelling in. The vehicle contained three occupants.

The officers identified themselves as police and began speaking to the driver and front seat passenger when the rear passenger - later identified as Abdinur - exited the vehicle. As the officers began to explain why he was going to be searched, he produced a revolver-type firearm from a bag he was carrying and pointed it at the officers.

Abdinur shouted expletives and ran off. He was chased by one of the officers, during which Abdinur turned and pointed the gun at the officer again. Abdinur then ran off.

On 10 April 2013, in a joint operation between the Trident Gang Crime Command and Hillingdon borough officers, Abdinur was arrested and subsequently charged.

Detective Inspector Jim Newcombe, Trident Gang Crime Command, North Reactive Team, said: "This incident highlights the bravery of unarmed officers who in the course of their duties could be threatened by individuals with firearms at any time. After a full investigation by the Trident Gang Crime Command, Abdinur pleaded guilty to the offence.

"The firearm used in this incident remains outstanding but the investigation into its location continues. If anyone has any information relating to this incident then please contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Hillingdon Borough Commander Steve Kershaw said: "I am very pleased with the outcome of this investigation. The sentence reflects how seriously the court takes such matters. I am very proud of my officers and how they try to keep everybody safe in sometimes very challenging circumstances."