A group of people used a firearm to threaten a property owner while they were trying to steal fuel, police say.
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Police say they are continuing to investigate the burglary, which occurred at a rural property in Colac Bay, west of Riverton in Southland, on Thursday morning.
Today they have revealed that one of the four male offenders who were found on the property at 8am produced a firearm to threaten the owner when he approached them.
"The firearm was not discharged and no one was injured during the incident," said Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Baird.
The offenders are believed to be between 20-30 years old, and were wearing hi-viz tops.
Baird said a second burglary was also reported to police in the nearby Round Hill area around the same time.
Firearms, meat, tools and a red and white Honda CRF230F dirt bike were stolen.
Photo: Google Maps
The investigation is trying to determine if the two incidents are linked.
Police are appealing for information, especially regarding any sightings of three cars.
They are: a silver/grey 1999 Subaru Impreza hatchback and a grey/blue Toyota Starlet hatchback which were seen in the area around the time of the incident.
The Toyota Starlet was later recovered in Thames Street, Riverton.
The third vehicle is a a red station wagon, which was also seen in the area at the time.
Information can be provided to police on 105, or to Crime Stoppers anonymously, referencing file numbers 220331/3292 and 220331/2506.