yes there was a guy who got busted big time, but the amount he had I think he didnt actually steal them from shelters themselves. if he did, it would have been a full time job. And he must be bloody good at getting away with it so long.
I've seen them left open in Sydney, and often seen them putting in and taking out. I had to deal with the company once years back, the bus shelter at the apartment complex I managed was smashed and the residents hassled me to have it replaced (not my job) the company JC Decaux were a nightmare to deal with, but got a new shelter eventually.