Police have completed searching the area at which the Hilux vehicle driven by William Stewart was located. He has not been located at this time and his whereabouts is unknown.
It appears that Stewart's appearance as at the last sighting at Mt Somers yesterday has changed in that he had a short beard but still has a short haircut.
As a result of the community reporting suspicious activity to Police there has been a spin off as Police have detected other offences by criminals in the Canterbury area. An example is on Monday when suspicious activity was reported by a member of the public in the Darfield area. When Police went to the address a large cannabis growing operation was discovered. The occupier was arrested and charged with cultivating cannabis for supply.
Unfortunately however a few members of the Mt Somers and Staveley area knew of the whereabouts of Stewart and where he was camping but for whatever reason did not see fit to inform Police. Some had apparently known of this for four weeks. In that period of time Stewart has committed many burglaries and offences throughout Canterbury and in their local area. Because of his P habit and his known violent demeanour, along with the fact he is known to be in possession of at least two shotguns, other members of the public and Police have been put at undue risk. This is very disappointing and Police continue to encourage members of the public to ring Police on 111 if they believe they can see Stewart at the time or any suspicious activity that requires urgent Police attendance.
Unfortunately Police are receiving many calls from the Public that have probably been Stewart but not reported until well after the sighting. This is giving Stewart the advantage.
Stewart is 47 years of age and a career criminal having committed offences throughout his youth and adult life with a history of violence, dishonesty and drug offences. He is using methamphetamine which makes his behaviour unpredictable. He shown throughout his life has no respect for other people or their property. He could be dangerous to the public if cornered. Inquiries by Police indicate that Stewart is a particular danger to Police and will resist Police when they try and apprehend him.
Stewart will continue to commit offences and Police are continuing investigative work and Patrols to endeavor to apprehend him.
Senior Sergeant Stewart Munro
Sub Area Commander, Selwyn Police