Werribee Tradie Turns Sleuth, Tracks Stolen Ute Using AirPods

A quick-thinking Werribee tradie turned detective this week, using technology to track his stolen vehicle, only to be met with a frustrating outcome. After thieves made off with his ute from a local worksite, the tradesman remembered his Apple AirPods were inside the cabin.

Using the ‘Find My’ app on his iPhone, he was able to locate the headphones—and by extension, his stolen vehicle—moving through Melbourne’s western suburbs. He promptly alerted Victoria Police and followed the signal to a residential street in Tarneit.

Upon arriving, he found his ute abandoned. However, his relief was short-lived. The tradie told local media that before police arrived, a group of individuals allegedly approached the vehicle and stripped it of valuable tools and equipment, fleeing the scene.

Victoria Police confirmed they attended the Tarneit address and are investigating the theft. The incident has resonated with local tradespeople, highlighting the vulnerability of vehicles loaded with tools. It serves as a stark reminder for Victorians to remove valuables from their cars where possible and report any suspicious activity immediately to police.