A delivery driver working for the courier firm Evri has been arrested on suspicion of stealing up to 120 parcels in the days leading up to Christmas, leaving many presents unlikely to reach their destinations in time for the holiday.
Arrest Made in Southampton After Delivery Concerns
A 24-year-old man from Southampton was arrested in the early hours of Monday morning following a report from Evri managers who had become concerned that a significant number of deliveries in the city were not being completed. Officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary attended an address in the Bassett area, where the suspect was detained.
The man was arrested on suspicion of theft by an employee and remains in police custody for questioning. This swift action came after the delivery company raised the alarm about missing orders just as the festive posting deadline approached.
Recovery Operation and Festive Frustration
During the operation at the address, police seized a haul of approximately 40 parcels. These items have been transferred to a police evidence store while investigators work to identify their intended recipients.
However, in a statement that will disappoint many, a police spokesperson confirmed the grim festive reality: "Sadly, it's unlikely any of these parcels will now make it to their intended recipients before Christmas." Enquiries are ongoing to locate the remaining 80 or so missing packages.
Police Use Witty Social Media Post to Deliver Bad News
Southampton Police took to Facebook to announce the arrest with a seasonal, if regretful, twist on a classic Christmas poem. Their post began: "'Twas the week of Christmas, and in our evidence store, staff could barely move, with gifts spread to the door!"
It continued with an apology to affected residents: "In Southampton, stockings were hung by the chimney with care, but an apology from us, as for many their presents won't be there." The post concluded by noting that their investigators were now busy with interviews instead of being "nestled, all snug in their beds."
While the humorous tone provided a lighter moment, it underscored the serious impact of the alleged crime. The incident highlights the vulnerability of the delivery network during its busiest period and the disappointment faced by customers who relied on timely Christmas deliveries.
