A thief made off with a loaded shotgun – sparking a major police operation late last night (Thursday).
A suspected opportunistic thief sparked stole an unloaded licensed shotgun from a 4×4 vehicle parked outside a takeaway food outlet on Commercial Street in Norton, Malton, at 11.13pm.
The suspect also made off with a mobile phone, wallet and keys from the vehicle. It had been left unlocked while the occupants, who had been out shooting, collected their order.
They spotted the man running off in the direction of Mill Lane and gave chase, but they could not find him.
Police launched house-to-house enquiries and a trawl of CCTV in the area.
Specialist resources were scrambled to the scene to aid the search, including a police helicopter.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “The suspect was spotted by a Neighbourhood Policing Team officer at 1.15am heading into allotments.
“A police dog and handler attended and located the suspect. He was arrested at 1.32am.
“The 48-year-old local man remains in custody for questioning.
“The stolen items, including the firearm, have been recovered the police.”
North Yorkshire Police is liaising with Humberside Police over the firearm which is licensed in their area.
Witnesses or anyone with information that could assist the investigation are urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101.
Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or make an online report.
Please quote reference number 12240095442 when providing details.