Drugs have been stolen in a burglary of an air ambulance in Otago.
Helicopters Otago chief executive officer Graeme Gale said the theft took place from the Queenstown-based rescue helicopter which had just taken a critically ill patient to Dunedin Hospital at the weekend.
“The helicopter and crew were forced to hold over at the base in North Taieri due to bad weather.”
He said the stolen bag held critical medical equipment and supplies.
“If the helicopter and crew had responded to an incident, unaware that the bag had been taken, there could have been fatal consequences.”
Police acting area investigations manager Detective Sergeant Hayden Smale said the theft at the Taieri Airfield, about 5km west of Dunedin, was “concerning on many levels”.
“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.
“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.
“We continue to investigate this matter and will be working hard to identify any available lines of enquiry.”
Police said they would like to hear from anyone who might have information about the burglary, or those involved.
Those with information could get in touch via 105 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
