Tyre thieves target Toyota dealer
South Canterbury Toyota have made an appeal over social media after it was targeted by thieves who stole 15 new tyres from its Timaru site.
The company posted on its Facebook page that the tyres were taken from the business on Stafford Street sometime between 6pm on Friday, May 8, and 7am on Monday, May 11.
“Unfortunately someone has broken the lockdown rules and decided they needed 15 tyres more than we did,” the post says.
“We’d appreciate these back and would love if you could share this post and keep an eye out for these tyres on social media … Thank you South Canterbury for being such a fantastic community (mostly) during these tough times.”
Fifteen new Kumho AT51 tyres suitable for four-wheel-drive vehicles were taken in the raid.
Craig McDermid, chief executive at South Canterbury Toyota, says the police were following a couple of leads about the incident and the Facebook post had been shared more than 265 times as of 9am on May 13.
“We haven’t got the tyres, which were locked and chained on a tyre stand, back yet but we’re hopeful,” McDermid, pictured, told Autofile Online.
“We’re very disappointed to think someone believes they have got more right to our property than we do.
“The tyres were bought for a specific customer and their needs. At times like this, when it may be difficult to get some products through supply chains, it’s disappointing this should happen.
“The response to our Facebook post has been extremely positive with lots of shares and a very high level of engagement from concerned South Canterbury people.”
Timaru Police are investigating and are keen to hear from anyone who has information that may assist their inquiries, “including anyone who sees this type of tyre for sale or is approached to buy this type of tyre”.
The burglary comes as South Canterbury Toyota, like all car dealers, have had to contend with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and government restrictions on trading.
It also follows the company suffering damage to about 100 vehicles when a hailstorm struck Timaru in November 2019.
“It’s been a memorable few months,” McDermid adds. “But these things are sent to try us and we just have to deal with them.”
