Tuesday, 16 October 2018 - 3:01pm |
Waikato

Reminder to keep your firearms secure

1 min read

Waikato Police wants to remind firearms owners to be vigilant following reports of firearm thefts over the past couple of weeks.

Richard Plas, District Arms Officer, Waikato says we are extremely concerned about these firearms getting into the hands of criminals and want to do everything possible to prevent that happening.

“These burglaries are an important reminder that all firearms owners should regularly check the security of their properties and ensure firearms are securely stored at all times. This means not being kept in vehicles.

“Police recommends good quality steel gun safes because we know these work and are a great way of preventing thefts. Practices such as keeping your ammunition, rifle bolt, and magazines stored separately are also important.

“People living at rural addresses can face greater risk of theft, so we suggest taking extra care.”

It is a legal requirement to secure firearms against theft. If it has been found a Firearms Licence holder has been negligent around the security of firearms then it is a possibility their Firearms Licence could be affected.

Police would also like to remind people it is a legal requirement to advise the nearest Firearms Office of any change of address. This is so we can arrange a security check and ensure the firearms are secured in an appropriate manner. The easiest way to organise this is by emailing waikato.firearms@police.govt.nz.

Any information regarding burglary of firearms can be reported to your local Police. If you see a crime happening call 111 immediately.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre