Bee Heist Buzzes in Cornwall: Huge Hive Theft Sparks Police Hunt
Beekeeper’s Property Stolen – Bees at Risk
Police and beekeepers are on edge after a daring theft of valuable beehives in Tresillian. “This crime hits hard—not just stealing property, but endangering the welfare of the bees,” said Police Sergeant Steve Applewhite, Newquay’s Neighbourhood Team Leader and beekeeper himself.
Remarkably, some bees have returned to the original site, suggesting the stolen hives were only moved a few miles from Tresillian’s house.
Big Job for Big Vehicle
Transporting the hives wasn’t a quick grab. “Such a large cargo needs a big vehicle and handling it alone would be extremely difficult,” Sgt Applewhite explained. Tresillian sits by the busy A3058 near Dairyland, meaning motorists may have spotted suspicious activity or vehicles hauling the hives late Saturday into Sunday.
Police Urge Public to Come Forward
Officers are calling on anyone who was nearby during the theft to speak up. “If you saw anything unusual, or captured anything on CCTV or dashcams, please get in touch,” Sgt Applewhite urged. They want to hear from anyone in Devon or Cornwall offered beehives or approached by anyone selling extra apiaries since the crime.
Got Info? Here’s How to Help
- Call police on 101 or email [email protected] with reference CR/053074/22
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555111
The buzz around these stolen hives shows that no crime is too small—especially when the bees are in trouble.
