To be attributed to Senior Sergeant Rob Huys, Response Manager, Dargaville Police
Dargaville Police are appealing for sightings of a white Station Wagon that was seen near a house which was later discovered to have been burgled and a number of firearms stolen.
At around 5.30pm last night, the occupants of a residential Dargaville property found that they had been burgled. As well as several electronic items, 11 submachine guns and assault rifles were stolen from a gun safe.
Police immediately began making enquiries and the investigation has continued throughout much of today, involving CIB staff, frontline Police officers and scene of crime officers, who have carried out a forensic scene examination at the address.
The owner of the property is a gun collector. Police believe the guns had been properly secured in the required manner. The owner and his wife are quite distressed and Victim Support have been engaged.
A white Station Wagon was seen in the area shortly before the burglary was discovered, Police want to hear from any Dargaville residents who may have seen a similar driving in a suspicious manner before or after the burglary.
Police are very concerned that these firearms are now likely to be in the hands of the criminal fraternity and the obvious risk that this poses.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Northland Police on 09 430 4520.
Information can also be given anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 55 111.
ENDS
Beth Bates/NZ Police