Police Warn of Rising Diesel Thefts from Farms and Machinery

Katikati police are reporting a noticeable increase in diesel thefts from farm tanks and machinery across the district, a trend Sergeant Steve Hindmarsh says is closely linked to rising fuel prices. Residents are being urged to secure their properties and report anything suspicious.

Recent incidents include the theft of diesel from a bulldozer and a truck parked near Hikurangi Road, Tahawai, on 8 April. A vehicle was spotted at the scene and was later located at an Athenree address with stolen diesel stored in a drum inside — inquiries are continuing. Earlier, on 4 April, a male drilled a hole into the petrol tank of a vehicle parked at Francis Drive, Katikati, to steal fuel, with an arrest said to be imminent.

Sergeant Hindmarsh is reminding the community to look out for their neighbours and to lock up equipment and vehicles. Anyone witnessing an incident in progress should call 111, or ring 105 to report it afterwards.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).