Police in Telford seize sawn off shotgun

A 17 year-old male was arrested on suspicion of theft and three other males - aged 21, 23 and 25 - were arrested on suspicion of possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

Following a thorough and extensive search of the premises by officers, a sawn off shotgun and ammunition were found.

The items have been seized by officers and have been taken away for further forensic examination.

The four arrested men from the address will be interviewed on suspicion of possessing a firearm, in addition to the drugs offences.

Inspector Richard Langton, lead officer for the operation in Telford, said: "The sawn off shotgun and ammunition was a significant find for us.

"We didn't expect to find a firearm but due to the tenacity and thoroughness of our officers, we did find it.

"The items have been seized and will undergo a thorough forensic examination. Four males arrested from the address will be questioned by officers today."

Operation Christmas Crackdown started with a series of dawn raids. Police executed warrants under the Theft and Misuse of Drugs Acts. A number of the warrants were executed as a result of information received from members of the public via Crimestoppers.

Inspector Langton added: "This is a prime example of police working with the communities we serve. The police value Crimestoppers as a prime source of intelligence gathering and are able to obtain information that would be unlikely to come to us through normal channels.

"We recognise that some people do not want to get involved or give their name. Crimestoppers provides the means for people to pass information about crime with a guarantee of anonymity.

"We would like to thank those people - whoever they are - who called Crimestoppers and gave information which has helped us to disrupt, prevent and detect crime.

"Today was all about making our communities safer and targeting those who cause harm. I can't think of a better example of this than taking an illegally held firearm off the streets."

Anyone with information in relation to criminal activity is urged to call West Mercia Police on 101 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.