Waikato Police investigating firearms related burglaries are concerned that young children may have been placed at risk being transported in a car with a sawn-off shotgun concealed under a mat.
Detective Sergeant Neville Ross of the Waikato Crime Prevention Team said the concern arose after a Honda Odyssey that was sought in relation to a burglary in Hamilton last week was located by Police searching a Bader address.
"The car was located at the house next door about 2pm yesterday and concealed under a mat between the seats was a sawn-off shotgun.
"Of particular concern for Police is the people linked to the address and the car have children aged between two and six years old and we would be concerned about children like this being transported in a vehicle with such items hidden inside."
Another matter of concern for Police was cannabis found at the property and utensils used in the consumption of methamphetamine.
"One person at the address being searched was arrested on outstanding warrants while two others were arrested for drug related offending.
'On our return for follow up enquiries today another person was arrested for drug offending and we are still investigating in relationship to the circumstances around possession of the shotgun."
Mr Ross said the focus by Police on firearms related dishonesty offending continued today with two stolen firearms recovered from a property shortly before 8.30am.
"Assisted by members of the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad our team went to a Dinsdale address where a stolen shotgun, .22 cal rifle and a Ghurkha Kukri knife were recovered.
"While searching the home the remnants of methamphetamine use were found and three people now face charges and our enquiries into this matter are also still continuing."
Mr Ross said the correlation between dishonesty offending, illicit drugs and illegally held firearms was one of continuing concern not only for Police but a large part of the community.
"People use your property to pay for drugs and often have illegally obtained firearms to protect their interests.
"The question people need to ask themselves is; "should I tolerate people using drugs having access to firearms and putting me and my loved ones at risk?" If the answer is no and you have information about illegal activity then you should contact Police."
Alternatively the public can leave information anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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