Source: New Zealand Police
Eastern Bay of Plenty Police are urging trailer owners to take simple steps to deter thieves following reports of trailer wheels being stolen for use in anti-social road activities.
Inspector Phil Gillbanks, Prevention Manager for Eastern Bay of Plenty Police, says trailer owners can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims by taking a few practical security measures.
“The offenders are indiscriminate, targeting private trailers, commercial trailers, and volunteer organisations. A recent theft was from a club where six trailer wheels were stolen.
“Trailer wheel theft can cause significant inconvenience and expense for owners, while also contributing to wider community harm when those wheels are used to support dangerous driving behaviour.
“We are encouraging trailer owners to think about how and where they store their trailers, and to take steps to make them less attractive targets for offenders.”
Police recommend trailer owners:
- Store trailers out of sight from the roadway where possible.
- Park trailers behind locked gates or inside garages and sheds.
- Consider using wheel clamps, wheel locks, or locking wheel nuts.
- Secure wheels to the trailer frame or axle assembly using a heavy-duty chain and quality padlock.
- Park in well-lit areas where suspicious activity is more likely to be noticed.
- Photograph trailers and record distinguishing features to assist identification if stolen.
Inspector Gillbanks says community vigilance remains one of the most effective crime prevention tools.
“If you see suspicious activity involving trailers, trailer wheels, or vehicles carrying wheels in unusual circumstances, please let Police know. Information from the public can help us identify offenders and prevent further thefts.
“These thefts are often opportunistic. Taking a few minutes to secure your trailer can save a great deal of inconvenience and may prevent your property from being used to facilitate anti-social behaviour on our roads.”
Anyone witnessing suspicious activity is encouraged to contact Police. If the incident is occurring at the time, call 111 immediately. Information after the event can be reported via 105 online or by phone.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/16/tyred-of-thieves-police-urge-trailer-owners-to-secure-wheels/