Detectives arrest five people after investigations into deep cycle batteries thefts at mobile phone towers

Police have released video showing officers smashing open doors at a Gold Coast home during a search for stolen goods worth more than $100,000.

POLICE have released dramatic video of a raid on a Gold Coast home in connection with the alleged theft of more than $100,000 worth of batteries.

The deep cycle batteries were stolen from mobile phone towers and advertised and sold online to “unsuspecting” customers, police allege.

Five people have been arrested over the scheme in which Gold Coast mobile phone towers for all major telcos were allegedly targeted by thieves between January and May.

Police said the companies reported up to $125,000 worth of batteries stolen.

Some sites were allegedly raided on multiple occasions, police said.

Deep cycle batteries are used at mobile phone tower locations as a backup power source in the event of a mains power outage, police said.

A police officer kicks open a door during a raid on a Gold Coast home in search of stolen batteries.

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Police allege the batteries were advertised for sale on social media sites and primarily purchased by people using alternative power sources such as solar or wind, as well those wanting an extended power supply on camping trips.

Coomera detectives yesterday arrested five people at a Southport address where they found 36 deep cycle batteries.

Batteries allegedly stolen from mobile phone towers which were found at a Southport property.

Police said items believed to be associated with a clandestine drug laboratory were also seized.

A 37-year-old man has been charged with seven counts of enter premises and one count of breach of bail.

A 34-year-old woman has also been charged with two counts of drug possession and one count each of enter premises and fail to dispose.

Further charges are expected.

Police are asking members of the community to be wary of purchasing the batteries from a second-hand source.

Investigators are urging anyone who has recently purchased deep cycle batteries which look similar to the seized items to come forward.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.