Water thefts, Darling Downs District
With severe drought conditions and limited water supply affecting parts of the Darling Downs, police are disappointed and concerned to have received three reports of water thefts across the local area.
On March 11, more than 7,000 litres of water was stolen from the Girraween Environmental Lodge in Wyberba.
Between June 7 to 21, an unknown quantity of water was taken from a dam at a property on Poziers Road in Cottonvale.
Additionally, between July 28 and 29, an unknown quantity of water was taken from High Street in Stanthorpe after a cap was removed from a water main.
Police also suspect there have been three other incidents of water theft in the area, but so far, no formal complaints have been lodged.
Stanthorpe Officer in Charge Acting Senior Sergeant Greg Finucane is encouraging residents to be conscious of their water usage and assist the Southern Downs Regional Council’s aim of reducing water consumption.
“We would like people to double check that taps are turned off, monitor water depths and volumes in tanks and dams and to report any thefts or suspected thefts to police,” Acting Senior Sergeant Finucane said.
“If residents believe a vehicle or person appears suspicious and may be taking water without consent, consider writing down the registration or a description of the person and their clothing as well as the time, date and place it occurred.
“Our community is going through a very tough time with the limited water supply and severe drought conditions.
“It is important that we band together and support each other – that is why it is so important that any water theft is reported to us so that we can investigate thoroughly and take action against anyone who would do such a thing.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Quote these reference numbers: QP1900508812, QP1901206260, QP1901494527.
