In a brazen overnight raid, thieves have smashed their way through security fences at a vehicle transport depot in Adelaide's north, using vehicles from inside the business to force their entry and escape with three high‑value cars.
Dramatic Smash‑and‑Grab Operation
The incident occurred at a depot on Davis Street in Wingfield, with police reporting the break‑in took place around 3.15am on Monday. The culprits initially cut through a perimeter fence to gain access to the secured yard.
Once inside, they commandeered two vehicles belonging to the business—a Ford ute and a Hino truck—and used them as battering rams to smash through the main gates, clearing a path for their escape.
Significant Damage and Stolen Vehicles
The forceful exit left the main gates and the two used vehicles with substantial damage. Meanwhile, the thieves made off with a white Ford 4WD and two black SUVs. Notably, none of the stolen vehicles were fitted with registration plates at the time of the theft.
Staff arriving for work later that morning discovered the destroyed front gate, confronting a scene that has become sadly familiar for this particular business.
A Repeat Target for Criminals
This depot has been targeted before. Last year, thieves attempted to steal a truck from the same location, but it became wedged in an electric gate during their escape. While they abandoned that vehicle, they still managed to flee with two other cars.
"It's really unfortunate to have that happening again, it's a little bit rough," an onlooker remarked to reporters, highlighting the frustration of repeated criminal activity.
Business Owner Responds and Police Concerns
Business owner Greg Mellberg stated the latest raid has prompted an immediate security review. "It makes us a bit more aware of our situation here," he said, acknowledging the need for enhanced protective measures.
Police have expressed concern that the stolen vehicles may never be recovered. There is a growing trend of organised crime groups targeting high‑value cars, often hiding them in shipping containers for export overseas to be sold on the black market.
This incident follows a recent crackdown on car theft syndicates. Just last month, seven men were charged in Queensland after detectives uncovered a $9 million car theft operation.
Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage from the Davis Street, Wingfield area around the time of the incident to come forward and contact police to assist with the investigation.
