Skorpion firearm seized as part of ongoing operation is linked to two shootings in Merseyside

We can confirm that a Skorpion firearm seized as part of an ongoing operation has been linked to two shootings in Merseyside.

In March this year, the weapon (see above image) was seized and led to an offender being sentenced to five and a half years for possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of a firearm without a certificate and possession of controlled Class B drugs (cannabis) with intent to supply.

Following forensic examinations, we can now confirm that this firearm has been linked two shootings that occurred in late April to early May 2022.

The first occurred on April 26 when a woman aged in her 50s was shot in the leg inside a home on Deverell Grove, in Wavertree.

The second shooting occurred on May 2 when shots were fired at a house on The Beechwalk, in Stoneycroft.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Ball said: “As part of an ongoing investigation into the use of this firearm, we are now in a position to confirm that we believe the weapon is linked to two shootings in Merseyside.

“One of these incidents involved a woman who was shot in the leg in an appalling act of violence in Wavertree.

“The other was when a house was shot at in Stoneycroft. This was extremely reckless and could have caused serious or fatal injuries.

“Investigations into both of these incidents remain ongoing and if you have any information, please get in touch.”

Det Ch Insp Ball added: “These weapons are highly dangerous and can fire up to 800 rounds a minute, there is no place for them on our streets.

“Last year, we saw the loss of three lives - Ashley Dale, Sam Rimmer and Elle Edwards – who were all killed through the use of a Skorpion firearm.

“With the case of Sam, the investigation is ongoing and we are still appealing for anyone with information to come forward so we can catch his killer.

“The murders last year show why we are committed to a relentless approach to tackling serious organised crime. 

“This year we have seen a significant reduction in the number of firearms discharges across the county compared to 2022.

“Last year, there were 49 firearm discharges in Merseyside and so far in 2023 there have only been 14, which is a 64% decrease.

“Information from the public is vital if we are to continue to breakdown the organised crime groups who bring misery to our streets and I would appeal to anyone who has information to come forward.

“I completely understand that speaking up could be daunting, but when people are willing to support the police we will ensure every possible avenue is progressed to protect them.

“If you don’t feel comfortable coming directly to the police you can call the independent, anonymous, Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111, we need to know who is involved in gun crime and where those guns are being stored.”

Information from the public is vital to the success of the ongoing work and anyone who has information about firearms or drug dealing in your community, you can DM us @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or call 101.