TWO shotguns, a rifle and ammunition are now in the hands of criminals after they were snatched during a burglary.
Police officers are hunting the firearms and cash taken from the house in Brook Road, Tolleshunt Knights.
Jewellery was also stolen after crooks gained access to the house owned by Michael and Caryn Lewis and removed a number of items on Sunday evening.
Nikki Lewis, the victims’ daughter, said three people arrived at the house in an estate car, with two getting out and breaking in.
The remaining person then drove off and circled the area before returning to collect the duo.
An Essex Police spokesman said its detectives are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
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He said: “We were called to reports of a burglary shortly before 10pm on Sunday, April 30, in Brook Road, Tolleshunt Knights.
“Suspects gained entry to a property and removed several items
“They included a safe, a firearms safe containing a number of firearms, jewellery and a quantity of cash.
“We need anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward.”
Ms Lewis said her parents, both aged 63, have been left frightened by the incident.
“It feels like somebody targeted them because of the guns, but dad is not part of any clubs he just had them for himself,” she said. “He is very careful.
“They were locked and bolted down in a safe in a hidden place.
“The burglars spent 45 minutes in the house and turned the whole place upside down. Every room was trashed.
“Now mum is worried that they might come back armed with the guns for more.”
If you have any information which can help the police, you should call 101 and cite crime reference number 42/78264/23.
Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made via charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
If you have any information which can help the police, you should call 101 and cite crime reference number 42/78264/23.
Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made via charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
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