Police Issue Warning After Shotgun Thefts

Hampshire Police have issued a warning after three shotguns were stolen in separate thefts.

They say it is important for licenced gun owners to ensure that their firearms are properly secured.

A spokesman for Hampshire Police: “In the last two weeks, we have received three reports of thefts of shotguns. In two of these, guns had not been properly secured and, along with ammunition.

“While shotguns and firearms are everyday equipment for some of our certificate holders, it is really important that the highest level of security is maintained, and guns should not be left unattended out of their cabinets for any period of time.

“We all have a duty of care to ensure that it is made as difficult as possible for guns to fall into the wrong hands.

“Certificate holders will be aware that they have a lawful duty to maintain the security of their guns at all times, and they should know that, in addition to being dealt with for any criminal offences arising from a breach of security, certificates will invariably be revoked.

“Please work with us to prevent these thefts and serious harm by reporting anything you think we should know, either through online reporting via our website www.hampshire.police.uk, by calling 101, or ringing Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) anonymously. In an emergency, if something is happening there and then, ALWAYS dial 999.”

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