THIEVES have raided a secured gun cabinet and stolen pistols and rifles - a theft which has concerned police who say it is possible they may be used to commit more crimes in the Esperance area.
Two rifles, two pistols, three replica firearms and a metal detector have been stolen in a daylight burglary at a Sinclair home and Esperance Police are appealing to the public for help in getting them off the street.
Police said the owner had not done anything wrong and the firearms were all secured correctly. No ammunition was taken in the burglary.
However, Senior Sergeant Richard Moore of the Esperance Police Station said the theft of the real and replica firearms was a major concern because generally stolen firearms had been known to be used in crimes such as domestic violence, murders, intimidation and robberies.
"There's a range of reasons that people steal firearms," Senior Sergeant Richard Moore said.
"The sooner we get them [the stolen firearms] off the street the better," he said.
"Whether they're real or replicas, it's very concerning.
The burglary happened at a Downes Street property on March 30 some time between 10am and 3.20pm, which means they have been missing for more than five weeks.
"Police are concerned these firearms are in the community, please, if you know anything contact police."
A forensics team from Kalgoorlie attended the scene at the time and Esperance detectives are continuing to investigate the theft. Senior Sergeant Moore said police did not know why someone would want to steal the firearms but hoped it was not for sinister reasons.
"It could be targeted, it could be a random thing.
He appealed to the public to help police in their investigations.
"If you have stolen or know who's stolen then, ring Crime Stoppers.
"Let us know where they are so we can send police to secure them."
Senior Sergeant Richard Moore said anyone with information about the thefts should contact Detective Darryl Noye on 9079 8999 or Crime Stoppers phone number is 1800 333 000.
