Shooting trio arrested in Rotherham jailed for 30 years

Benjamin Zvekare, Henry Besong and Yakeef Murphy, all 21, planned a targeted attack against a man at his home in Fox Hill Road, Sheffield.

The 54-year-old victim — at home with his partner — answered the door to Zvekare and Besong.

Besong shot at the man from close range, leaving him with a severe wound to his right arm.

They fled in a car which was parked nearby and driven by Murphy.

Det Insp Lee Nesbeth said the trio had been identified as suspects within days of the attack on February 26.

He added: “On Friday, March 1, firearms officers executed a warrant at a house in the Broom area of Rotherham, in connection to the incident, and where we believed the three offenders would be.

“Zvekare, Besong and Murphy were all arrested after they tried to flee the premises. A search of the house saw officers recover a bloodied sawn-off shotgun, ammunition and a quantity of class A and B drugs valued at over £35,000.”

Besong, of Cromarty Close, Sinfin, Derby, admitted possession of a firearm and GBH and was jailed for 13 years.

Zvekare, of St John’s Road, Edlington, was sentenced to 12 years after admitting possession with intent to supply cocaine, heroin and cannabis.

Murphy, of Cockayne Street in Derby, pleaded guilty to six years for possession of a firearm and possession with intent to supply cannabis.

Det Insp Nesbeth welcomed the sentences and added: “I hope that through this result, local communities can be rest assured that South Yorkshire Police will relentlessly pursue those criminals who arm themselves to commit offences.

“The investigation also resulted in a firearm and ammunition, as well as a large quantity of class A drugs being taken off the streets, a hugely positive outcome for the investigative team and the public of Sheffield.”

The victim had reconstructive surgery and it still remains unclear if he will regain full use of his arm.