Appeal after firearms stolen during Darlington burglary

Police are urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity after firearms were stolen during a burglary.

The incident happened at around 4am yesterday morning (November 3) in the Pateley Moor Crescent area of Darlington.

During the incident, suspects forced entry to a house and stole firearms and live ammunition that were stored inside a gun safe.

A silver Nissan Navara was also stolen from the property, but has since been found and recovered by police.

In total, five shotguns were stolen, and two bolt action rifles, along with live shotgun ammunition.

Detective Inspector Clare Lambert, from Darlington CID, said: “The guns were all lawfully held, licensed, and stored inside a locked gun safe, which had been broken into and all the guns removed.

“Enquiries are currently ongoing to trace the offenders, and we are actively pursuing a number of leads in an attempt to apprehend those responsible and recover the stolen items.

“We are concerned about the potential risks posed by these firearms falling into the wrong hands, and are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

“If you are offered any of these items, or you have any other information about their whereabouts which can help our investigation, please get in touch.”

Call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 348 of November 3 with any information.

Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org