Guns Stolen in Saintfield House Burglary

DETECTIVES in Downpatrick are investigating a burglary at a house in the Greens Road area of Saintfield yesterday (Wed 20 March) between 10am and 11am.  Among the items reported missing are three legally held firearms (two shotguns and one air rifle), jewellery, a laptops and TV. Thieves also entered an out building on the property and stole a Honda scrambler motorcycle. Police would advise the owners of legally held firearms and ammunition to take steps to help prevent such items being stolen during a burglary.  It is the responsibility of all owners of legally held firearms and ammunition to ensure such items are stored safely. Owners should secure all their firearms and ammunition in approved gun cabinets that have been manufactured to the correct standard. The cabinet should be secured to the fabric of the building. Considerable thought also needs to be given to the appropriateness of its location. Those with hold bolt-action rifles should store the bolt separately. For added security, rooms where firearms are being stored could also be fitted with alarm sensors. Keys to gun cabinets should also be kept in a secure place with access limited to authorised persons, without a label, and away from the cabinet. Anyone who witnessed any unusual activity in the area yesterday or has been approached to purchase these items from an unusual source is asked to contact detectives at Downpatrick on 0845 600 8000.  Alternatively you can contact the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.]]>