Northern Territory Police are calling for public assistance following the theft of a firearm overnight.

Superintendent Peter Gordon said the rifle was stolen from a vehicle on Caterpillar Court.

“Between 7.30pm 3 February and  6.15am 4 February, an unsecure Ruger Imperial bolt action .308 calibre rifle, which was inside a canvas cover, as well as a quantity of ammunition, was removed from a vehicle by an unknown offender/s.” he said.

The rifle is described as:

• silver/grey in colour
• black plastic stock with a silver rifle scope attached
• a 4 round magazine (empty)
• a box of 20 x .308 calibre ammunition

“The owner of the firearm will receive a notice to appear in court at a later date, in relation to failing to secure the firearm and ammunition.

“This is also a timely reminder for all gun owners, to always secure their firearms.

“Firearms that get into the wrong hands can have fatal consequences,” Superintendent Gordon said.

Police are urging anyone who might have seen anything suspicious in the area during this time, or who have information regarding the whereabouts of the firearm to contact them on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.