A MAN who claimed he bought an illegal shotgun at a book fair has been jailed for five years.

The weapon - which was found in a bag with 30 shells - was discovered during a raid by Southampton police as part of drug crackdown Operation Fortress.

The gun was in a plastic bag in a car parked in Lyon Street, Southampton, was was linked to Felix Charles Awuku.

Salt Mead resident Awuku, 58, was found guilty of possession of an illegal firearm after a trial at Southampton Crown Court on July 27, 2016.

Investigating officer A/DS Mark Edis said: "This sentence shows how seriously the courts view firearm related violence, which often has a connection to the supply of illegal drugs. 

"Awuku provided a statement saying that he had bought the firearm at a book or antique fair - this was clearly not the case.

"Hampshire Constabulary does not tolerate drug or gun related violence and prosecutions such as this will be sought against individuals believed to be involved.

"We also need your help. If you have any information about drugs in your local community, please contact us.

"The more information we have, the more we can do about it."

Operation Fortress is a police campaign to try and reduce the harm of drug-related violence, including restricting the supply of illegal substances.

Hampshire Constabulary is keen to hear from anyone who is concerned about drugs in their neighbourhood and has identified a number of suspicious signs.

Police say a sudden increase in visitors to a house or flat and people only staying for a short time could indicate drug dealing, as well as short exchanges between small groups of people near a flat or house.

Residents are also warned to look out for people loitering in an area and using their mobile phones quickly, as well as cars being parked in areas that normally wouldn't be there.

Anyone with concerns can contact police on 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.