The theft occurred overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday, 21 January, once again highlighting the persistent risk faced by road transport operators carrying high-value goods across Europe.
According to local police, the articulated vehicle had been parked on Promenadenweg, an industrial area in Krefeld. Unknown perpetrators uncoupled the semi-trailer and drove away with it, leaving the tractor unit behind.
The driver discovered the theft at around 5 a.m. and the incident was reported by an employee of a forwarding company. A police patrol was dispatched to the scene shortly afterwards. Investigators have not yet disclosed how the perpetrators secured the area or what vehicle was used to remove the semi-trailer.
Gaming electronics worth at least €1.5 million
The stolen semi-trailer was carrying more than 30 pallets of video gaming accessories, including racing steering wheels and pedals. Police estimate the value of the stolen goods at no less than €1.5 million.
The shipment was scheduled for delivery later the same day to a consignee in the Netherlands. Beyond the direct financial loss, the theft also caused disruption to an international supply chain.
Investigation underway
The case is being handled by the criminal investigation unit of the Krefeld police and is being treated as aggravated theft. Investigators are continuing their inquiries and searching for those responsible.
Police have appealed to witnesses who may have seen the semi-trailer being towed away or noticed suspicious movements involving heavy goods vehicles in the area during the night.
Ongoing risk for international road transport
The incident is part of a wider pattern of cargo theft affecting European road transport, particularly shipments of high-value goods such as electronics. It underlines the continued risks associated with overnight stops outside secure parking facilities.
Industry representatives have repeatedly pointed to the shortage of secure truck parking and the need for better protection of vehicles, trailers and loads. The case near Düsseldorf shows that this issue remains unresolved and costly for carriers and logistics operators operating across borders.
