Ontario Provincial Police are urgently searching for a suspect who somehow managed to seize a military-style assault rifle from one of the force's cruisers.

The perpetrator nabbed the Colt C8 firearm from the OPP's Nottawasaga detachment in Angus on Sunday afternoon, just under 1.5 hours' drive from Toronto, near Barrie.

The model can be fully- or semi-automatic and is issued to authorities to use in particularly hairy situations, like active shooter-type incidents. It is among the firearms that are illegal for civilians to possess in Canada.

1/3 #NottyOPP are currently investigating the theft of a OPP-issued C8 rifle from a police vehicle. Please avoid the Brentwood Rd area in Angus while the investigation continues. Expect a large police presence in the area. pic.twitter.com/xO8T4k8Z2e

— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) February 5, 2024

The terrifying weapon can fire up to 950 rounds per minute at a speed of 900 metres per second — which is why it is particularly concerning for a member of the public to have.

"Our priority is to recover the firearm and ensure the safety of our community," the cops said in a release about the theft on Sunday evening, also warning of a large police presence in the area of Brentwood Road in the small township.

Authorities advise anyone who spots "any suspicious activity or observes someone with a firearm" to call 9-1-1 immediately and to not approach the individual under any circumstances.

"Remember, your safety is paramount. Do not engage with any individuals associated with the stolen firearm. Report sightings promptly," they wrote.

Residents are also being instructed to exercise general caution, as the stolen firearm poses a serious risk to public safety.

How could this possibly happen unless, of course, the firearm was not legally stored in the vehicle as required by law. Just plainly stupid and foolish.

— Mark Carew (@MarkCarew18) February 5, 2024

Many online are wondering how the crime even occurred, with some noting that it wouldn't have been an easy theft to pull off unless an officer failed to lock the vehicle or otherwise secure the gun properly.