Two trucks entered an industrial estate in Runcorn, England, and hauled away trailers carrying more than 800 Guinness barrels. The drivers arrived separately during a two-hour period Monday night. Each connected a tractor to a loaded trailer displaying GXO branding before leaving the depot. Police estimated the total value of the stolen beer and trailers at £205,000, or approximately $277,000.
The first vehicle reached Aston Lane around 7:45 p.m. Its driver attached a loaded trailer and departed 10 minutes later. That driver traveled toward the Mersey Gateway. A second truck arrived at 9:12 p.m. before leaving around 9:30 toward Rainhill and Watkinson Way.
Police release driver descriptions
Investigators described the initial driver as a white man with a short, dark beard and beanie. Authorities believe another male wearing a cap handled the later pickup. The Cheshire Constabulary announcement provides no additional physical details. Officers have not released photographs showing either individual.
The stolen beer carried an estimated value of £115,000, or approximately $155,000. Both white tri-axle curtain-side trailers displayed GXO branding. GXO told FreightWaves neither unit fell under its control, management or supervision during the theft. Police identified the equipment numbers as DL736 and DL542.
Those unique identifiers appear near the upper-left corner of each back entrance. Authorities included photographs within their announcement. The images show branding and other distinguishing features. Investigators hope motorists or witnesses recognize the missing equipment.
Investigation remains active
Detective Sergeant McClatchey confirmed that officers quickly opened an inquiry. “We will settle for nothing less than the full recovery of all the items stolen,” McClatchey said. His statement urged nearby motorists to review dashcam recordings. Relevant footage could reveal either vehicle’s movements before or after both incidents.
Anyone with information can contact Cheshire Constabulary online or call 101. Tipsters should reference incident number IML-2408641. Officials also want surveillance video captured near Aston Lane during the evening. The department has not announced any arrests or recoveries.
The public notice does not explain how both drivers accessed the property. Authorities have withheld the tractor registration numbers and ownership information. Investigators provided no details about credentials, paperwork or security procedures. Police also have not identified possible connections between the operators. FreightWaves contacted Cheshire Constabulary for additional information but did not receive a response before publication. This story will be updated if the department responds. Editor’s note: This story was updated Sept. 5 with additional background from GXO.
Why it matters
Two drivers removed valuable commercial loads during separate visits to one depot. Freight professionals can use this case to examine gate controls, pickup authorization and trailer-release procedures.
Click here for more articles on cargo theft and freight fraud by Phil Brink.
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