Police have issued a warning about people posing as tow truck drivers in Auckland following several incidents in the last few months.
Motorists have been warned about a small group of people who are “committing crimes by using unregistered tow truck drivers to pick up vehicles”.
Counties Manukau police sergeant Suzannah Kimber said the group steals vehicles by pretending to legitimately tow them before disposing of the vehicles, and added they “even go as far as wearing high-visibility clothing”.
“Recently these offenders towed a member of the public’s vehicle in plain sight,” she said.
“Members of the public drove past this tow truck while they were loading it up as it just looked normal.”
How to avoid the scam
On avoiding the scam, Kimber said all legitimate tow trucks will have an external sign with the company name, and will be able to produce a logbook if asked.
“They also must be a registered transport operator.
“If you see a tow truck without any distinguishing features towing cars, please call police immediately.”
