Police urge gun owners to secure weapons

Owners of legally owned firearms are being urged by police to make sure the weapons are properly secured.

From April last year to February 2 2007, the number of firearm thefts in Northern Ireland has decreased from 66 to 40 in comparison to the same period between 2005 and 2006.

However although the number has dropped, police are warning owners to be extra careful following a recent spate of thefts throughout the province.

Police Inspector David Connery said that a few practical steps would ensure all firearms are stored safely and securely.

Inspector Connery said that owners will see from their current firearm certificate, and as laid down in the Firearms Order (NI) 2004, that they are required to secure all their firearms and ammunition in an approved gun cabinet that has been manufactured to the correct standard.

He continued: "Considerable thought also needs to be given to the appropriateness of its location. The certificate further requires those who hold bolt-action rifles to store the bolt separately.

"This is the minimum standard required, and depending on other factors such as the location and construction of the property, and the number and types of guns held, owners may need to take additional security measures.”

He concluded that by keeping the keys to the gun cabinet in a secure place, without a label and away from the cabinet itself is just one very practical step to prevent guns from being stolen.

Anyone who would like further advice on how to prevent their weapons from being stolen can contact a Crime Prevention Officer or Firearms Enquiry Officer on 0845 600 8000.

(EF/KMcA)