Lorry Drivers Warned About Pre-Christmas Freight Crime
A warning has gone out to lorry and van drivers in anticipation of a freight crime increase in the weeks leading up to Christmas. According to the Freight Transport Association, a number of factors could threaten companies not "on their guard", including extra staff, additional vehicles and seasonal rosters/routes.
The FTA alert coincides with the heightened number of goods being shifted across the UK in line with demand, pre-Christmas.
A spokesman from the group emphasised: "Drivers are reminded of the golden rule to only accept changes in their delivery or collection instructions from those they know in their own traffic offices." He added: "And traffic office staff are also frequently targeted by would-be thieves."
The association drew attention to several recent thefts to illustrate the variety of methods employed by criminals targeting the freight industry. One involved the theft of a trailer containing a full load of alcohol, and took place at a delivery site located in London. It was achieved after one of the criminals persuaded the vehicle's driver to transfer the wine and spirits on board to another, stolen vehicle - parked near to the security gate.
Also highlighted were instances where criminals turned up with counterfeit paperwork supporting their claims that they were there to collect items due to be returned to source.
A handful of traditional vehicle-jacking incidents were also included. In one, a lorry and attached trailer were broken into while on an overnight motorway services stop. However, the criminals also set the vehicle ablaze - turning it into a shell.
The FTA emphasised the scarcity of these kinds of events, but stressed the need for drivers to remain vigilant.
Source - Freight International's Assistant Editor
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