Two arrested after burglary at gun shop

Two people have been charged in connection with a burglary in Marton during which a number of firearms were stolen.

The burglary occurred around 9.45pm on Tuesday (21 April) at Rangitikei Rods and Rifles in Broadway, Marton.

Earlier today Police arrested a 20-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man at an address in Wainuiomata. A pump action shot gun, which was one of the firearms stolen in the burglary, and some shotgun ammunition unrelated to the burglary, have been recovered.

The man and woman, who are both from Wainuiomata, appeared in court at Lower Hutt today charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition. More charges are likely to follow.

Police still want to hear from anyone with information about the whereabouts of the remaining firearms which are:

• A Harrington and Richardson 20 gauge pump action shotgun
• A Mauser 6.5 x .55 calibre high-powered bolt-action rifle
• A Normco JW105 .223 calibre bolt-action rifle
• A Karl .177 calibre air rifle
• A Gamo Shadow .177 air rifle with telescopic sight

Police also want to thank the media and the public for their assistance in this matter. The early arrests were in part the result of public response to media appeals.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the remaining firearms or has any other information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Graham Perks at Marton Police on 06 327 6555. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously on 0800 555111.