A search operation is underway in Swindon after a real firearm was found in a park.
The live shotgun, which is believed to have been loaded with ammunition, was located in Westlea Park by a group of primary school children on Friday (10 June).
The youngsters swiftly alerted their parents, and subsequently, the police about the find. The firearm soon after was picked up and made safe by an authorised firearms officer.
Wiltshire Police search officers and Wiltshire Search and Rescue volunteers have today (11 June) been combing the area in search of more weapons – fearing more could be stashed in the park.
In a statement, the force said: “Following reports from members of the public of a suspected firearm in Westlea Park, Swindon, yesterday – we can confirm that the item was a firearm which has since been made safe and removed from the area.
“Our investigation is ongoing.
“We will be carrying out further searches of the area as a precaution over the course of the day – but we would like to assure the public that there is no ongoing threat.
“We would ask that parents keep their children away from the park for the time being to allow officers to carry out their search.”
