A 31-year-old man who was found by police carrying two machetes in public has been jailed.

Kwame Poku, of Rycroft, Furzton, Milton Keynes, was sentenced to five years in prison on Friday, June 28, following a five-day trial at Aylesbury Crown Court.

Poku was found guilty by a jury for the following:

·       Two counts of possession with intent to supply a controlled class A drug, namely heroin and cocaine

·       Two counts of possession of a bladed article in a public place

·       One count of possession of criminal property

This is in relation to an incident at around 5.30pm on Saturday, October 21, 2023 when Poku was seen acting suspiciously on a footpath in Cheriton, Furzton.

When officers approached him, he made off on an e-scooter before jumping off and continuing on foot.

He was chased into an alleyway by the authorities and detained under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act.

It was discovered he as found in possession of cannabis, a large quantity of cash and two large machetes.

He was arrested on the same day and charged on Sunday, October 22.

Officers then carried out a search at Poku’s residence and found a large quantity of heroin and cocaine, and seized items in connection with proceeds of crime.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Katie Henley, based at Milton Keynes Police Station, said: “I am glad that Kwame Poku has received a lengthy custodial sentence.

“Knife crime and illegal drugs has such a negative impact on the safety and security of the community.

“The successful outcome of this case demonstrates the hard work put in by Milton Keynes Neighbourhood Team to tackle such offenders, which has been reflected in a strong sentence given by the court.

“Hopefully this case sends out a message to those individuals that if you carry knives or weapons and are intent on being concerned in the supply of drugs and criminality, you will be caught and face the consequences of your crimes.

“If you have any information about the supply of drugs in your neighbourhood, please report it to us via 101 or the Thames Valley Police website.

“Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”