Stolen Scissor Lift Driven Through Cork City Streets in Ireland
30-Second Takeaway
Four men were filmed driving a stolen rough-terrain scissor lift through the streets of Cork, Ireland, on Sunday night, striking bollards and travelling onto public roads. The Genie GS-5390 lift, rented from Height for Hire, was taken from St Patrick’s Quay and driven for approximately 15 minutes before being stopped by Gardaí at a roadblock on South Gate Bridge. Two men were arrested, and no injuries were reported.
Incident Overview
An incident involving the unauthorised use of access equipment occurred in Cork City, Ireland, on Sunday evening November 2nd at approximately 20:30.
A rough-terrain scissor lift was stolen from St Patrick’s Quay and driven through city streets, including Grand Parade, before being intercepted by police.
The incident was recorded on video by members of the public and quickly circulated online.
What Is Known
Location: Cork City, Ireland
Date: Sunday
Time: Approximately 20:30
Equipment involved: Genie GS-5390 rough-terrain scissor lift
Rental company: Height for Hire
Duration: Approximately 15 minutes
Injuries: None reported
During the incident, the lift was driven at speed and struck multiple bollards before entering open public roads.
Police Response and Arrests
Gardaí (Irish police) responded quickly and established a roadblock on South Gate Bridge as the machine attempted to cross the River Lee.
Two men, aged 20 and 31, were arrested
Arrests were made on suspicion of criminal damage
The men were detained for questioning
Other individuals involved fled the scene
Police noted that forensic evidence, including fingerprints on the platform, may assist in identifying the remaining suspects.
Official Garda Statement
A Garda spokesperson confirmed:
“An unauthorised taking of a utility vehicle at St Patrick’s Quay occurred at approximately 8.30pm on Sunday. The vehicle was located on South Gate Bridge, Cork City and two men were arrested and detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in Cork City.”
Why Incidents Like This Can Occur
Unauthorised access to MEWPs often occurs when:
Equipment is left unsecured on public-facing sites
Ignition or control isolation is insufficient
Sites lack physical barriers or monitoring
Machines are left operational outside working hours
Once stolen, heavy access equipment poses a serious public safety risk, particularly on live roads.
Industry Reminder
While no injuries occurred, incidents involving stolen access equipment on public roads carry extreme risk to pedestrians, motorists, and operators.
This event highlights the importance of equipment security, site controls, and end-of-shift isolation procedures, particularly in urban environments.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane and access-equipment incidents to support industry awareness and prevention. This article reflects confirmed information available at the time of publication and will be updated if further details are released.
How Incidents Like This Can Be Prevented
Equipment Immobilisation
MEWPs should be isolated, keyed out, or immobilised when not in use.
Physical Security Measures
Barriers, fencing, and strategic parking can prevent unauthorised access from public areas.
Site Monitoring
Lighting, CCTV, and alarms reduce theft risk and improve response time.
Public-Road Proximity Planning
Sites near public roads should apply enhanced security controls for mobile equipment.
Rapid Reporting
Immediate reporting of unauthorised use helps authorities intercept equipment before escalation.
