Warning on gun thefts

A HORRIFIC burglary at Hampton Park in June may be linked to a similar incident in Trafalgar last month.
In June, the News reported that a family of five were forced to the ground and tied up by three thieves who broke into their Hampton Park home on 3 June, and stole five hand guns.
The police described the ordeal as “horrific.”
A similar incident occurred on 19 August at Trafalgar, and investigators from Warragul CIU, Casey CIU and Armed Crime Taskforce believe the two are linked.
Detectives said both incidents involved five unknown men entering the house following a knock on the door from an unmasked offender. On both occasions, the men demanded firearms.
Police said it was not known how the offenders travelled to each of the locations but believed they had a vehicle nearby, possible a van or truck.
Detective Gordon Hynd of Warragul CIU issued a warning to all firearms owners to be vigilant with their security measures and urged anyone with information on these incidents to come forward.
“Both of these incidents have been extremely distressing to the victims involved and while no one was physically harmed, the psychological trauma has been immense,” he said.
Police are also appealing for the owner or driver of an older model green hatchback vehicle seen leaving Carnegie Court, Trafalgar, on the afternoon of 19 August to come forward as they may be able to provide further information.
Police have also released two images of men they hope to identify in relation to the aggravated burglaries, along with the descriptions of other men involved.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The first man police are looking for is described as being about 30 years old, around 178 cm tall, medium built, slightly wavy black short hair, tanned complexion and was wearing a black bomber jacket.
The second man is described as around 178 cm tall, average build, medium dark skin and was wearing black tracksuit pants, dark-coloured runners and a black knitted balaclava.
The third man is described as being of an average height and was wearing a dark jacket and pinstriped black shirt.
The fourth man is described as being around 182-187cm tall, skinny build and was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava.
The fifth man is described as being an average height, with a slim or medium build and was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava.