Police are investigating a number of thefts from isolated, rural properties around Northland, and some of the victims believe the thieves used drones to case out their properties first. Meaning the thieves do not have to risk being caught on a property ahead of the thefts as they have already identified where an item of interest is, and possible escape routes.
Police say they are not aware of any cases of drones being used ahead of thefts and urge people in rural areas to do their bit to fight such crime by reporting any suspicious activity as soon as possible, including any suspect drones. Acting Whangārei Area Commander Mohammed Atiq says Police have noticed an increase in the number of diggers stolen from rural properties and building sites in the mid/Far North during the past month. A number of these thefts are from opportunistic criminals looking for an insecure shed, or a farm vehicle with keys left in the ignition.
