Trucking Company Suffers Major Losses Due to Theft

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — A trucking firm has experienced the theft of two semi-trucks within a week in the Central Valley, resulting in significant losses of trucks, cargo, and business, totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

About SKS Logistics

SKS Logistics transports high-value loads across California and the nation for various clients.

Recent Thefts

Recent operations have led to substantial thefts of their vehicles. One truck was taken from a secured lot in Fresno and another was stolen from a truck stop on Highway 99 in Madera while the driver was resting for the night.

Details of the Incidents

“He parked the truck, and by the next morning, it was gone,” said Gargandeep Sidhu from SKS Logistics.

The California Highway Patrol noted that truck thefts at stops are not uncommon due to the lack of surveillance cameras monitoring these areas.

Precautions and Recommendations

Authorities advise truck drivers and owners to take preventative measures. “If you can install a tracking device in your vehicle, it increases the chance of recovery if stolen,” recommended Officer Sergio Moreno from CHP Madera.

Company’s Security Measures

Sidhu emphasized that his company enforces strict security protocols, urging drivers to park in locked facilities instead of truck stops. Despite having three trackers on each truck, criminals seem to have found ways to disable them.

Impact of the Thefts

As of now, the truck stolen from Madera was located 15 miles away from its theft location, but the cargo and trailer remain missing. The truck taken from Fresno was recovered a day later, albeit without its trailer, which was replaced by another company’s trailer.

The trailer was later discovered in San Bernardino County, but the cargo was stolen. Sidhu reported that these thefts have cost the company hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost cargo, trailers, and property damage.

Additionally, business opportunities have declined as potential clients fear theft of their products. Sidhu expressed, “This is a major loss for us. It is significantly affecting our business operations.” He estimates he has lost around 30 loads of unbooked cargo.

Insurance Implications

While insurance will cover the lost cargo, Sidhu mentioned that premiums will increase, adding further costs to the business. After the trucks’ recovery, Sidhu felt that law enforcement did not conduct a thorough investigation into the incidents. Both CHP and Fresno confirmed the reports, stating that no arrests have been made.