In the last month 23 vehicles, including motorbikes and home-made trailers, have been reported stolen in the Invercargill and rural Southland area.
Police believe the vehicles, which have been taken from Invercargill, Edendale, Wyndham and Wallacetown, were targeted by a group.
Most of the vehicles have been taken on joyrides and later recovered with substantial damage.
In the early hours of Wednesday August 30th Police attempted to stop a stolen vehicle driving through Edendale.
Police initiated a brief pursuit before the vehicle was spiked near Kennington.
As a result three males aged between 19 and 22 years old were arrested and charged with theft of a motor vehicle and driving while disqualified. They appeared in the Invercargill District Court on August 31.
Police are concerned about this increase in stolen vehicles across the Southland region and the decision from drivers to try and evade Police.
When a driver makes the decision to flee Police they put themselves and others at risk.
Police would like the public’s help to locate three stolen vehicles which are still at large:
1. 2000 Peugeot 206, ZG1220, stolen from Windsor, Invercargill
2. 1993 blue Honda Civic, SP9062, stolen from Glengarry, Invercargill
3. 1993 red Subaru Legacy Station wagon, ZB9062, stolen from Ohai
If you have sighted these cars or know where they are please contact Detective Matt Wyatt at Invercargill Station on 03 211 0400.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
This is also a timely reminder to people to lock up their vehicles, even when they are in the driveway, and remove valuables or at least put them out of sight.
For extra protection, vehicle owners should consider installing an alarm or using steering wheel locks and wheel clamps.
People should report all suspicious activity to Police. If it’s happening in front of you, phone 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre