Canterbury Police are carrying out a scene examination today following an aggravated burglary at a residential address in Hornby at around 7.15pm last night (7 December 2015).
Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Cottam said that four men are reported to have entered the house. “Two of these men are each understood to have been armed with a firearm. The four men have confronted the occupants of a sleepout and demanded cash and drugs.”
“They have assaulted two men, who were occupants at the address, before stealing a 2003 silver Ford Focus registration BSA410. This vehicle has not been located and Police are appealing for sightings of this vehicle."
Detective Senior Sergeant Cottam urges anyone who sees this vehicle or has any information relating to the aggravated burglary to contact Police. “The offenders should not be approached and anyone who sees the vehicle should contact Police straight away.”
“Of concern is that firearms were used during this aggravated burglary putting the lives of the occupants and the public at risk. While the occupants were not injured, this incident was a traumatic event and they are being supported by Police and Victim Support.”
It is too soon to tell whether this incident is related to the aggravated robbery on Sunday (6 December 2015) at the Phoenix Bar where a firearm was used. Police are keeping an open mind on whether they are linked.
Everyone has a right to be safe and feel safe in their own home. This sort of behaviour will not be tolerated and those responsible need to be held to account.
Police investigations are continuing.
Anyone with any information about this incident or sightings of the stolen is asked to call the Metro Crime 4 team at Christchurch Central Police Station on 03 363 7400.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-nz.org
Media note: Due to operational commitments Detective Senior Sergeant Cottam is not available for interviews this morning. An audio file is available by texting the District Communications Manager on 021 942 404.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404