Warning to gun owners after Rotherham and Sheffield weapons thefts

Holders of gun licences are being urged to make sure they have effective safety measures for their guns and cartridges.

Between 10.15am and 12.30pm yesterday (19 July), a house was broken into in the Wharncliffe Side area of Sheffield and a shotgun was taken.

The second offence is believed to have occurred sometime between 1.45pm and 7.45pm on the same day when a house in the Upper Whiston area of Rotherham was broken into.

A number of shotguns, cartridges and cash were taken from this property.

Temporary Det Ch Insp Jon Cousins, said: “While an investigation into both of these incidents is in the early stages, we are treating the matter very seriously and wish to ensure that other licensed firearm holders are aware of this recent criminal activity.

“Committed in broad daylight it appears that these incidents could well have been targeted and I’d like anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area, in particular any suspicious vehicles around the times mentioned, to come forward in confidence and report it to us.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to remind licensed gun holders to check their security measures. The most up-to-date security advice can be found online in the Home Office Firearms Security Handbook.

“The shooting community is close knit and I’d ask that people spread the message amongst those that you know are licensed holders to make them aware and to ensure adequate security measures are in place.

“It’s paramount that we recover these guns and identify those involved.”

Anyone with information can contact the police on 101 or can telephone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting incident number 413 of July 19.