A MAJOR Penola employer has expressed frustration and disappointment after recently being targeted by thieves who stole around $6000 worth of tools from its premises.
The pursuit of justice led Merrett Logging to post about the incident on social media late last week, with security camera footage showing a silver Holden sedan with distinctive paintwork on the property in the early hours of June 28, with two men stealing tools from three vehicles.
Among the stolen items were a portable welder, power tools and a socket set.
A truck driver entered the property around 15 minutes after the theft noticed the toolboxes were left open and alerted management.
Merrett Logging haulage manager Adam Merrett said the theft had been reported to police, with SAPOL issuing a public statement late Monday.
He said the theft was a source of frustration for staff members and the broader community.
“We have had trouble similar to this in the past hence the security cameras,” Mr Merrett said.
“It is a lot of money for us at the moment and nobody has spare cash due to these times, forcing us to go through insurance.”
Mr Merrett said staff could not comprehend why the theft occurred or why the business was targeted.
“It is very frustrating and we put the video out there on social media thinking someone may be able to assist and just letting the community know it has happened,” he said.
“It is hard to speculate why someone would do this but we cannot assume and now need to wait for the police to do their job.”
Mr Merrett said staff had previously spoken about building high fences and gates to help improve security, but found the project costly.
“Unfortunately it may be something we need to look into now,” he said.
Despite the setback, Mr Merrett said the company had been able to get by during the COVID-19 pandemic despite impacts to the blue gum sector.
“The pine industry has remained well and we have had to redeploy a lot of staff skill sets but have not had to lay anyone off,” he said.
“We have tried to keep our employees employed and working with them throughout this which we will hopefully see the other side of.
“Everyone is doing it tough at the moment and we would hope people would put a hand out rather than help themselves but unfortunately we are in different times.”
SAPOL released a statement Monday night appealing for information from the public.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Penola Police Station on 8737 2315 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
