Cairns Car Theft Spree Ends

Police in Cairns have apprehended five males linked to a series of vehicle thefts and related crimes that occurred across the city on May 27, 2026. The incidents involved three vehicles which were reported stolen and used in various dangerous driving incidents throughout the day.

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) reports that the stolen vehicles included a white GWM Tank from Earlville, a silver Toyota Yaris from Parramatta Park, and a silver Mitsubishi Pajero from Edmonton. These vehicles were reportedly involved in hazardous driving across several Cairns suburbs. Support from Polair was crucial in monitoring the vehicles, which led to timely interceptions by ground officers.

In a significant operation around 3 pm, police used a tyre deflation device to stop the Yaris in Cairns City, resulting in the arrest of four juveniles. The other vehicles were recovered in Bungalow and Portsmith earlier in the day. Charges against the suspects include unlawful use of a motor vehicle, unlicensed driving, and in some cases, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and property crimes.

All apprehended individuals are scheduled to appear in the Cairns Magistrates Court on May 28. The Queensland Police have urged anyone with additional information to report it to Policelink or Crime Stoppers anonymously.