Thieves take mobile freezer in daring raid

Security cameras capture the image of the car that towed away a custom-built chiller-freezer unit from a Napier firm's yard.

The theft of a $14,000 custom-built chiller-freezer unit from a Napier firm's yard just before New Year was a case of "they knew what they wanted and knew what they were doing".

That was how Star Foods manager Nigel Bryant described the theft of the trailer unit from the Dunlop Rd site which ended up leaving dozens of booked New Year customers without the vital piece of off-site catering equipment.

"We've had to go and cancel quite a few orders for it as this is a busy time of year," Mr Bryant said.

The theft happened at about 11.30pm on December 29 and appeared to be well-planned.

"Oh I think they've definitely cased the place out - that is what they wanted and they were determined to get it - probably had a New Year's party to take it to."

Security footage showed two people jumping the barbed wire-topped fence to the yard and running straight to the chiller unit which was parked behind two trucks and a pile of pallets.

"They pushed it around a bit to get it out."

One left, got in a car nearby and returned.

The thieves hitched it to a tow bar and were quickly gone.

The footage showed the car had no registration plates.

"So they've planned this."

The car appears to be Japanese and silver in colour with black wheel hubs.

The chiller-freezer unit was clearly marked with Star Foods on the sides.

Napier Police are seeking information about the car and any sighting of the unit.

"It was custom built for us - there is not another one like it," Mr Bryant said.

- Anyone who may have seen the unit being towed, used or stored is asked to contact Napier Police on 8310700.