The prosecution said the Browning pistol, which contained one bullet, was found wrapped in a cloth in William Njoh's pocket.

But Mr Njoh, of Blackheath, south-east London, denies having the pistol and ammunition in a public place.

He was searched for drugs after a police officer smelt cannabis in a road off Ladbroke Grove, west London in August 2002.

Under duress

Emma Deacon, prosecuting, said Mr Njoh began to resist and was carried to a police vehicle before the gun was found.

She said Mr Njoh later told officers a man called "Big Foot" placed something wrapped in a cloth in his pocket and told him to leave it there.

He allegedly told police: "There are certain guys who, when they tell you to do something, you do it. `Big Foot' kills people."

Miss Deacon said the issue in the case was whether Mr Njoh was acting under duress.

'Drinking brandy'

The gun's firing pin was broken but the weapon was able to fire when it was replaced, she said.

The court was told Njoh was stopped after a police officer saw him drinking from a half-empty bottle of brandy and smoking what looked like cannabis.

Detective Constable Martin Goodman said Njoh told him: "I had no choice because of the stuff which might happen to me. Inside or outside, I still lose."

The hearing was later adjourned.