Canterbury fugitive could be armed, police say

William Alexander Stewart. Photo / Supplied

Canterbury fugitive William Stewart could have firearms and be prepared to use them against his pursuers, police say.

It was possible Stewart was behind recent firearms thefts in Canterbury as he had a long history of burglaries, but he hadn't been sighted with a firearm, Senior Sergeant Stewart Munro of Selwyn police said.

Mr Munro did not think Stewart would shoot at the public but could use one for self-protection from police.

Stewart, 47, had evaded police since February 10 when he allegedly threatened a police officer with an iron bar in central Canterbury before disappearing into bush.

There are five warrants for his arrest and he was thought to have committed a string of burglaries and car thefts while on the run.

"He's just being stupid really. He should just go and give himself up. He's not a clever man...he's just been lucky," Mr Munro said.

Police were relying on sightings from members of the public, but hadn't had any since two Methven burglaries a week ago.

The hunt was complicated as Stewart could be almost anywhere in Canterbury, Mr Munro said.

Stewart was dangerous and unpredictable and should not be approached by the public.

He was believed to be a P addict and his burglaries include hauls of drug products from South Island pharmacies.

The last vehicle he had stolen was believed to be a grey 2009 Hilux twin cab well side ute, with a canopy, registration number ETU351.

Police have asked farmers and occupiers of properties in farming areas to report any suspicious vehicle movements or people on their property to southern police communications on 111.

They also advised farmers in the area to ensure that their properties, out buildings, farm houses, huts and vehicles were monitored and secured.

- NZPA