Midnight Raid

Hokitika Guardian, 20 January 1922, Page 3

Midnight Raid

BY MOTOR CAR THIEVES

[iJY TKIiEGKAPH- —l*Ell PHESS ASSOCIATIONJ WELLINGTON, Jan 19. Tlie discovery on the main road at Ngaio this morning of three motor cars belonging to residents indicated that there had been unusual happenings during the night, and subsequent investigations brought to light a remarkable story of the daring of some thieves, who had visited Ngaio under the cloak of darkness. Their operations were mainly confined to motor garages, several of which were broken into, and entry also forced into other premises, and the whole venture was carried out without disturbing the iesidents. After being unable tm manipulate the three cars, the thieves had finally found one to suit their purpose, and with it, they made awny in this car. The car taken was the property of Mr W. Nicholl. This theft was -as far aB can be astertained, practically the full extent of their haul, the only other articles reported missing being a ease of benzine and Two pairs of boots. _

It appears that the thieves first visited B. J. I'. Lynneberg’s motor garage on the main road, and removed a car. Their efforts to got it on to the road were hampered In a turnstile, and the ca” was abandoned. At James Maher’s residence, entrance was gained by breaking two windows, but nothing was removed from the house. Another garage nea r by, containing a car belonging to Charles Gardiner, was then tried. The car was removed, but as it was locked it was left with the lights burning. A case ot benzine was, however, taken by the thieves. Quite handy they found another garagd, and from it they secured a, ear belonging to S. Goddard. Hie lock on this vehicle again upset thencalculations. „-. u

bootshop occupied by Mr uaooiuwas evidently the next place of call. The window was broken, and two pairs of boots were taken. Nicholls garage was next visited and a Hereford car was found. With this the thieves made off. So far there is no tracof of the car or the occupants. At about two o’clock this morning a resident of Colwny Street was awakened by barking dogs, and soon afterwards ho heard a ear pass down the street. Beyond that, nothing was apparently seen or heard of the mid-night raiders.