South Wales Police officers are appealing for the public’s help in finding a dangerous firearm which is believed was used to kill two sheep on Tuesday (February 7th).
Despite fingertip searches by specialist teams and searches of a number of addresses across the community, the firearm has not been located and until it is recovered by police it presents a risk to the public.
Local people are being urged to contact 999 if they know of its whereabouts, and are advised not to handle the object in any way.
People who know where the weapon is, who are concerned about revealing their identity can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Superintendent Simon Clarke said: “Despite sustained efforts, we haven’t located the weapon yet. There are a number of things which concern me about this whole incident at this point, but the one priority for me and my team is to locate the firearm to get it out of harms way.
“If it has been hidden, somebody somewhere may know where it is or may come across it soon. I’d remind that person that if they do not come forward they are committing a serious criminal offence.
“The weapon may well have been dumped somewhere, which concerns me even more because it could literally be found by anyone. My advice is do not handle the weapon in any way, and contact us on 999 because we have officers who are equipped to deal with it safely.
“We will continue to do everything we can to locate it,” he added.
The hand gun is very distinctive. It is silver and has a white handle.
A number of addresses have been searched by firearms officers across Rhydyfelin. Specialist search teams have also been working in the area.
Superintendent Clarke added: “Gun crime is extremely rare in South Wales, let alone Rhydyfelin. People may have been alarmed by the police activity and the presence of some armed officers. I stress this is only a precautionary measure. We must ensure the safety of our officers. We do not know if the weapon is loaded, so until we have the firearms in our possession and know for certain, we must presume that it is.”
Neighbourhood officers have been carrying out house to house enquiries in the area, and contact has been made with the education authority to engage with young people about personal safety and the dangers of firearms.
To date, three local people, a 37 year-old male and two boys, aged 12 and 15, have been questioned by officers in relation to the possession of a firearm and criminal damage.
Two sheep were discovered by the farmer who owned them on Tuesday afternoon at around 4.30pm, on land adjacent to Dynea Road, Rhydyfelin.
