An investigation is underway into the theft, police say. (File pic) Photo: Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust
Police say thieves put people's lives at risk by taking critical medical supplies from a rescue helicopter in Otago.
The Queenstown rescue helicopter was burgled at the Taieri Airfield over the weekend after taking a critically ill patient to Dunedin Hospital.
The helicopter's medical supply stores were raided and a bag containing drugs and other items was taken.
Helicopters Otago chief executive Graeme Gale said bad weather prevented the crew from flying back so they were forced to hold over in base.
"If the helicopter and crew had responded to an incident unaware that the bag had been taken, there could have been fatal consequences," he said in a statement.
This afternoon he told RNZ: "I'm furious and steaming mad about some low life that came onto the airfield, then also enter into an aircraft - both of those are CAA [Civil Aviation Authority] offences for a start - and then remove a very critical component to the rescue service that we use on every critical mission that we go on."
Acting area investigations manager Detective Sergeant Hayden Smale said an investigation was underway and anyone with information should contact police.
"Beyond putting the lives of air ambulance patients at risk by taking these essential medical supplies, some of the drugs stolen pose a significant risk to anyone who may choose to take them recreationally," he said.
"The wrong combination or dosage could potentially be fatal, and we urge extreme caution for anyone who may come into contact with these stolen medical supplies."
Police would like to hear from anyone who might have information about the burglary, or those involved.
Anyone with information can get in touch via the police's 105 service, quoting reference number 250112/9460.
Information can also be anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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