Rapper Bandit, whose real name is Aisha Zaman, has been remanded in custody after being charged with firearms offences following an incident in which a police officer was shot in the foot in Nottingham city centre.
Zaman, 27, who is also known as A1, appeared at Nottingham Magistrates‘ Court on Friday, October 23, facing two charges: possessing a prohibited firearm and possessing a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence.
The charges relate to an adapted shotgun that allegedly discharged at a bus stop on Angel Row at around 4.50 a.m. on October 18. Police Constable Lee Lane was injured during the incident after approaching two people in the area.
Prosecutor Mairin Long told the court that Zaman allegedly took the weapon from a man and placed it inside her jacket. The court heard that the firearm later fell to the ground and discharged after the officer arrived at the scene.
PC Lane remains in a stable condition in hospital and has undergone several operations, according to the prosecution. His recovery remains a central concern as the investigation continues.
Zaman, who is from Collison Street in the Hyson Green area of Nottingham, spoke only to confirm her personal details during the hearing. Members of her family were also present in court.
Magistrates ordered that she remain in custody ahead of a plea hearing at Nottingham Crown Court scheduled for November 20.
The investigation has also led to the arrest of several other people. Four individuals were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, while police continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Jahmal Ruddock-Senior, 35, was reported to be due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, October 26, in connection with the wider case.
The incident has drawn responses from local political representatives and police organisations. Nottingham East MP Nadia Whittome expressed sympathy for PC Lane and his family, while the Police Federation of England and Wales highlighted the dangers police officers face while carrying out their duties.
Detective Chief Superintendent Rich Bull thanked members of the public for their support and said Nottinghamshire Police was assisting PC Lane throughout his treatment. He added that the officer and his family were being kept informed about the investigation and had asked for privacy.
Zaman remains in custody as the legal process continues. The charges against her have not yet been determined by a court, and she has not been convicted of the alleged offences.
