A Kingston College student has appeared in court charged with drug and firearm offences following his arrest last Tuesday.

Adamo Kizey, an 18-year old performing arts student, had been searched at the further education college by police acting on intelligence.  Officers allegedly discovered a powerful handgun in his possession. A search of his home later revealed a silencer, ammunition and quantities of cannabis.

Dr Nick Sinnamon, principal of Kingston College, said that Kizey had joined from a local school. He said: “He had been making good progress on his programme and we are extremely concerned that one of our students has broken the law in this manner. “

In court, Kizey did not enter a plea but spoke simply to confirm his name, age and address to magistrates. He faces charges of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of an illegal weapon, possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition and possession with intent to supply cannabis.

The recovered firearm was described by Metropolitan Police as a Baikal 9mm pistol, a Russian-made handgun designed to fire gas pellets.

Although originally sold in Eastern Europe as a weapon for self-defence, criminals have been converting them to fire live rounds, making them a popular weapon amongst UK gangs. 

Tests carried out by police have confirmed that the firearm discovered at Kingston College was capable of firing live rounds.

Dr Sinnamon said: “The incident is the first of its kind and the college will continue working with the police to ensure students are educated on crime related issues.”

Kizey has been remanded in custody until his appearance at Kingston Crown Court on April 13.