Gun recovered after Sunderland shooting

More than 20 people have been arrested across Sunderland and Newcastle and numerous houses have been searched and property recovered after a window was shot at in Edgmond Court, Hollycarrside, on Monday, February 29.

Yesterday a black Land Rover Sport was recovered in Manston Close in Moorside after being left abandoned. Officers attended and searched the vehicle and found a firearm - a revolver - inside and officers believe they were used in the Hollycarrside incident, in which no one was injured.

Detectives are currently in the area carrying out house-to-house enquiries and CCTV is being viewed. Officers are asking anyone who saw the vehicle or anyone in or near it over the past few weeks to get in contact.

Southern Area Commander, T/Chief Superintendent Ged Noble, said: “This is a significant development in our enquiries into this incident as we believe the vehicle and the firearm were used in the shooting in Edgmond Court.

“However, this doesn’t mean we are complacent and we are continuing to carry out as much activity as we can to relentlessly pursue and disrupt all of those involved in this criminal network. The activity we are carrying out and efforts we are going to to put a stop to this dispute is extensive - and will continue. We will not stop until we are satisfied the situation has been resolved and all of those involved in associated criminal activity have been arrested.

“Our local communities should not be alarmed about all of this, although we do know it can be very alarming. The number of incidents involving firearms is thankfully very low, however, when they are owned or used illegally we will take robust action and do everything we can to make sure the actions of those involved are stopped and the firearms are seized and destroyed.

“Our enquiries are continuing and we would ask anyone who has seen the Land Rover Sport in Moorside over the past few weeks, whether they’ve seen anyone in it or saw it being parked there, to come forward and speak to us as they may have vital information that can help our investigation.

“High visibility patrols will continue to be carried to offer reassurance to people who may be concerned - they are there for our communities and we would urge local residents to speak to them if they are concerned.”

•To report information about the Land Rover - or the on-going dispute - ring Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 511 290216 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.