Wirral businesses hit by HGV lorry thefts

Sep 30 2009 by Kevin Core, Birkenhead News

Wirral businesses hit by HGV lorry thefts

A SPATE of tractor unit thefts is ruining the livelihoods of hauliers in Wirral.

In recent weeks six incidents have been recorded of powerful Scania and MAN vehicles being targeted by organised gangs.

The thieves come fully equipped with chains and straps to move trailers from cabs but if they are unsuccessful leave them so damaged they need major repairs.

It is believed the wagons are cannibalised for parts which are sold abroad, or are used to tow away whole trailers full of goods at other sites and are later burnt out or abandoned.

Self-employed Eddie Williams, 34, kept his Scania at Tarran Way South in Moreton.

He said: “I came back to the yard on September 4 to find they had tried to move the cab but couldn’t because it was immobilised.

“It got smashed up as they used a nearby JCB to drag it from the trailer – I think it was an attempt to steal to order for someone abroad.