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.
And while Police are not aware of any cases of drones being used ahead of thefts, they 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 Inspector Mohammed Atiq, relieving Whangārei Area Commander, said police are continuing to target offenders in response to thefts from rural properties in the region.
‘’Police have also 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,’’ Atiq said.
Several properties at Whangārei Heads have also been hit in recent weeks, with most having property stolen that was not visible from the road, up long driveways.