Detective senior sergeant Paul Wilson says the theft of firearms is of the utmost significance to police and is given priority.(File picture) Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
The theft of firearms in two separate burglaries is a timely reminder for gun owners to be vigilant with security, Eastern Bay of Plenty police say.
On 10 April, a property in Edgecumbe was targeted and several items, including a gun safe, were taken.
In a second break-in in Rūātoki two days later, a number of firearms were also stolen.
Police were looking into nearby CCTV footage and conducting forensic inquiries in the investigations.
Detective senior sergeant Paul Wilson said the theft of firearms was of the utmost significance to police and was given priority.
Weapons must be secured and owners should have adequate security measures, such as gun-safes and security-cameras, Wilson said.
Neighbours needed to watch out for each other and report any suspicious behaviour, especially in rural areas, he said.
Police urged anyone with information on firearm burglaries to call them on 111, if it is occurring now, or 105 after the fact. Other information can be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.