Stolen shotgun sparks helicopter search

North Yorkshire Police said a "large-scale operation" was launched after the theft

A stolen shotgun sparked a large-scale police search involving a helicopter.

The unloaded and licensed weapon was taken on Thursday night from a 4x4 vehicle parked outside a takeaway in Norton, near Malton, in North Yorkshire.

A mobile phone, wallet and keys were also stolen from the unlocked vehicle, while the occupants, who had just been shooting, collected their food order.

Specialist resources were deployed to the scene and a 48-year-old local man was arrested.

The owners of the shotgun spotted a man running off in the direction of Mill Lane following the theft on Commercial Street at about 23:15 BST.

North Yorkshire Police said the owners gave chase but could not find the suspect.

The force said a search was then launched, which included a police helicopter, and the suspect was spotted by an officer at 01:15 BST on Friday, heading into allotments.

A police dog and handler attended and a man was arrested at the scene. He remains in police custody for questioning.

The stolen items, including the firearm, were recovered.

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