An illegal immigrant who robbed a woman in her home at gunpoint will serve 13 years in prison and could face deportation.

Victor Okumu, of Greenbank Avenue, Sudbury, was found guilty of robbery and possession of a firearm on Monday (02) at Harrow Crown Court.

The 27-year-old forced his way into his victim's home in the Northwick Park area on May 24 last year, after he pretended to be delivering a parcel.

Okumu barged in and held a gun to her head in front of her three-year-old daughter before demanding jewellery.

He stole many sentimental items from the woman, including her wedding and engagement rings, which were never recovered.

He also punched her and pushed her over, before threatening to tie her up and locking her in the kitchen with her daughter. Okumu then stole her Mercedes, worth £45,000.

Okumu was caught a couple of months later when police pulled him over for minor traffic offences in a different vehicle. A camera was found in the car with pictures of the stolen Mercedes.

After the jury found Okumu guilty on both charges, Judge David Mole sentenced him to 13 years.

He said: "I am sending you to prison for 13 years for robbery and possession of a firearm but I am also recommending you for deportation.

"It came to light during this case that you are here illegally and your status here is now in the hands of the secretary of state.

"Whether the gun you held to her head was an imitation or real has no bearing on how scary this must have been for your victim. She has been left suffering from post traumatic stress syndrome and it was all done in front of her three-year-old child."

Speaking after the trial DS Ted Salter, of Wembley CID, said "Victor Okumu committed an appalling and terrifying robbery on the victim in front of her young child at gun point, in what she thought was the safety of her own home.

"The victim showed great bravery in recalling details which helped convict him. Victor Okumu's motivation to steal the motor car was pure financial greed.

"He was an illegal immigrant, it is unclear how he funded his lifestyle. We still do not know his true identity. I would like to reassure the public this type of crime is very rare. I would like to thank the prosecuting counsel and our colleagues in the Crown Prosecution Service ."