Reward for return of guns

THE owner of a burgled gun store is offering a reward for the return of his 25 missing firearms.

Six 12-gauge shotguns, seven Tikka bolt action rifles with silencers and scopes, and eight 12-gauge Beretta semi-automatic shotguns are among what was taken when Gun City’s Auckland shop and warehouse was broken into late last Tuesday night ( Central Leader, July 5).

The break-in came just a week before the shop was due to move to new premises in Penrose which opened yesterday.

Police have expressed concern that the stolen guns may be traded among criminals and say it appears the thieves knew what they were looking for.

Avondale Detective Senior Sergeant John Sutton says the investigation is making progress.

‘‘Police have spoken to a number of people but would still be keen to hear from anyone with information.’’

Gun City is a national chain of shops owned by David Tipple.

‘‘I’m eager to see these firearms back in the hands of law-abiding citizens immediately and the criminals responsible held to account.’’

Mr Tipple is offering a $10,000 reward for any information that leads to the conviction of those involved and $10,000 for the return of the guns in their proper condition.

Police

investigating the break-in have said security at the store was ‘‘not as robust as it could have been’’.

Mr Tipple says security at the new Penrose shop is sufficient and has been inspected by police.

Photo: IAIN MCGREGOR Reward: Gun City director David Tipple is offering $10,000 for the return of 25 guns stolen from his Mt Roskill store and another $10,000 for information that leads to those behind the theft being caught.