Wairarapa Police execute warrants in search for stolen firearms

Police investigating the theft of firearms from a property in Masterton have executed a number of warrants in Masterton and Carterton today.

Wairarapa Police searched properties at High Street in Carterton and Johnston Street, Waterhouse Street and Cockburn Street in Masterton, with support from the Wellington Armed Offenders Squad.

This follows a burglary at a Masterton property on Tuesday 3 July which resulted in nine firearms  being taken including rifles and shotguns.

Detective Senior Sergeant Sean Hansen of Wairarapa CIB says this morning's operation was a reflection of how seriously Police are taking this matter:

"The taking of firearms in this manner is extremely concerning and Police are committed to doing all we can to recover them and catch those responsible.

"We will not tolerate such activity and the obvious risks it poses to the community.

"We have an active investigation ongoing and we will find those responsible. If you have any information then please contact Police.

"I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding this morning while we closed some roads to execute these warrants." said Mr Hansen.

A quantity of cannabis seedlings, cannabis and a firearm unrelated to the burglary were recovered.

A 24-year-old Carterton man faces charges relating to possession of ammunition. A Masterton man and a Carterton man - aged 28 and 26 - face a number of cannabis offences.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Masterton Police directly on 06 370 0300, alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.