A “dangerous” gunman who tried to stash a loaded pistol in Mitcham Common has been jailed for 10 years.

Clayton McCalman, of no fixed abode but formerly of Tasman Road, near Lambeth Hospital in Stockwell, was arrested by police officers who approached him near Mitcham Common on October 12, 2011.

He was under surveillance by plain clothes officers from Operation Trident – the Met Police’s specialist gun crime unit – who suspected he was involved in buying and selling firearms.

McCalman, 23, ran into a wooded copse area where he discarded a loaded semi-automatic pistol and then surrendered himself to the officers.

A search using police dogs found the weapon, a Sauer 38h in 32 calibre – stuffed inside a sock.

He was jailed for 10 years by Kingston Crown Court on April 10 after admitting to possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.

Acting Detective Sergeant, Phil Carruth from Trident said: “Hopefully the lengthy prison term given to McCalman will act as a deterrent to others who choose to be involved in the use and supply of firearms throughout London.

“The success of this case and similar ones being undertaken by Trident proactive teams continues to show the dedication and commitment of officers to target these dangerous individuals.

"This investigation provides a clear example of the determination and ability, which is synonymous with Trident to bring offenders such as McCalman to justice.”

He was further sentenced to three years (to run concurrently) for possessing ammunition with intent to enable another to endanger life.

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