Two men have been jailed following a violent aggravated burglary in which residents of a family home in Grays, Thurrock were threatened and attacked, leaving one occupant in need of hospital treatment.

The incident took place in the early hours of Friday, 21 April 2023, when police were called to the scene and swiftly arrested a suspect. During a search of the property, officers recovered a firearm, as investigations began into the terrifying break-in.

The gang responsible for the raid had targeted the property demanding jewellery and watches, which were stolen during the burglary.

A thorough investigation followed, involving extensive CCTV analysis and rapid forensic work. This ultimately led to charges being brought against five individuals—four men and one woman—by the Crown Prosecution Service.

Hassan Mansary, 27, of Goldsmith Road, Peckham, admitted multiple serious charges, including aggravated burglary, grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of a knife or bladed article, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and possession of ammunition without a certificate.

Solwazi Asante, 19, of Eastbury Road, Watford, denied the charges but was found guilty at Basildon Crown Court on four counts: aggravated burglary, possession of a bladed article, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and possession of ammunition. He was acquitted of the GBH with intent charge.

Three other defendants — Mohammed Mansary, 27, of Alameda Place, Bow; Anthony Foday, 27, of Nightingale Road, Bowes Park; and Tiarnna Barnes, 24, of Birch Close, Peckham — were all acquitted of their respective charges following the trial last year.

Sentencing took place on Thursday, 13 March 2025. Hassan Mansary was handed a nine-year prison sentence for all offences. Solwazi Asante received a total of 11 years behind bars.

An Essex Police spokesperson said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims in their own home. Thanks to fast police work on the night and an intensive investigation, those responsible have been brought to justice. We hope these sentences provide some comfort to the victims and send a clear message that violent criminals will be held accountable.