KEY POINTS:
Armed police looking for fugitive Richard Alan Duthie swooped on a private lodge at Haruru Falls in the Bay of Islands yesterday, arresting two people and seizing a firearm.
Duthie, 40, was not at the address and is still being sought after firing a gunshot at West Auckland police on September 3 when his car was pulled over in Henderson.
He has been on the run since May after failing to appear in the Rotorua High Court on drugs charges.
Detective Inspector Mike Pannett said Armed Offenders Squad members from Whangarei and specialist police units went to a lodge after learning that Duthie might be there.
Although there was no sign of him, two other people had been arrested in relation to "assorted matters," Mr Pannett said.
He would not comment on what type of firearm was recovered but said police had spoken to several people at the lodge and inquiries had continued there throughout most of the day.
Mr Pannett said police were concerned at the "availability of firearms" to Duthie who appeared to be able to access them as he moved around.
"He certainly appears to have strong connections in Northland. He's mobile, moves around regularly and must have access to assorted vehicles," Mr Pannett said.
A week ago, armed police searched an address in the tiny Far North east coast settlement of Aurere on Tokerau Beach, north east of Kaitaia.
Mr Pannett said police believe Duthie is still in Northland and are urging people to call police immediately if they see him or have information about where he is.
Duthie is a European, 175cm tall with sandy hair. He is of medium to solid build.
He may be armed and is considered dangerous.
