‘Armed and dangerous’ man wanted in St. Catharines firearms theft

Niagara police are warning the public of a man considered “armed and dangerous” who is wanted for stealing a number of firearms from a St. Catharines business.

The theft occurred on Aug. 24 on Geneva Street near Ted Street in St. Catharines.

The investigation revealed that Pavel Braoun, 35, of St. Catharines broke into the building and stole three handguns and three long firearms from a secure gun cabinet.

Police are now searching for Braoun who is facing a number of charges, including break and enter to steal firearms and possession of a firearm contrary to probation order.

In relation to the incident police have arrested David Venketeswaran, 54, also of St. Catherines for possession of property by crime under $5,000.

Detectives continue to search for the firearms.

Anyone who knows of Braoun’s whereabouts or has information about the stolen guns  is asked to contact the 1 District Street Crime Unit at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1029782 or Crime Stoppers of Niagara at 1-800-222-8477.

READ MORE: Cause unknown in suspicious Stoney Creek vacant house fire