Whangārei, don’t get caught dozing on the issue of railway sleeper theft.

The Team from Northland Police

Police are seeking information from the public about a spate of thefts across the wider Whangārei area in the past two months.

Approximately 180 sleepers have been reported as stolen over this period, Whangārei Area Investigations Manager Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer says.

“These reports have been made from various yards across the region,” he says. We suspect that these sleepers are likely being sold off for financial gain, and it’s likely that these are being sold to unsuspecting members of the community.”

The latest theft was reported in the Port Whangārei area on 18 September. Police are asking for people to come forward if they have knowledge about the thefts.

“We also want to hear from anyone who might have been offered sleepers at a cheap price in the past couple of months. Our Tactical Crime Unit is investigating and collating reports, and the team are keen to identify those responsible,” Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says.

People should apply common sense and remain vigilant. “If something appears too good, or too cheap, to be true then it probably is.”

Anyone with information can update Police online or call 105 using the reference number 250919/9513.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.