Big theft of turkeys

Press, 20 September 1980, Page 1

Big theft of turkeys

A J poultry-processing firm which has , lost stock valued at more than $14,000 to burglars in six weeks believes that its frozen birds are being stolen “to order” for an organised local' market. In the latest burglary, on Thursday night, a truckload of turkeys and turkey products was stolen from the freezer at Poultry Processors (North Canterbury), Ltd, in Coldstream Road, Rangiora. The haul included frozen Tegel turkeys, . turkey roasts, and other turkey products valued about $lO,OOO. On the night of August 13, burglars escaped with

turkeys and chickens valued about $4500. On both' occasions the thieves cut through bars and padlocks bn the freezer t'oor to gain entry. “There must be a prearranged local market for them to be able to take so much frozen stuff,” said a spokesman for the company yesterday. “They could have freezer facilities or they could make delivery rounds straight' after the burglary, for. all we. know.” Because of the bulk involved, the burglars would have needed a truck . or large van to carry off their spoils. The spokesman said that the latest burglary might

have a “certain effect” on the company’s ability to fill orders, even as far off as Christmas.

The company supplies turkeys to General Foods, among others. “Some people mighthave trouble getting a turkey for Christmas but it is a little early to say yet,” said the spokesman. The police are still investigating both burglaries.

The possibility of frozen foods being stolen “to order” was raised last year when a wave of preChristmas thefts of hams and turkeys from butchers’ shops and warehouses was reported to the Christchurch police.