Metal Theft
Metal theft can cost industry and businesses vast amounts of money. For example, the theft of copper wire from Puddlers Bridge in Merthyr Tydfil caused the closure of the bridge and repair costs of £12,000. The metal had an estimated scrap value of just £20.
Impact
The main impact is not just a financial one. As well as the financial cost to replace the stolen metal, metal theft can lead to man hours being spent on replacing the stolen goods. Rail companies suffer massively with this type of crime and this can lead to delays to trains and commuters getting to their work places, with the domino effect leading to further lost man hours.
Prevention
Businesses could improve their security measures with CCTV systems and alarm systems as well using anti-vandalism paint or anti-climb wall spikes to protect areas of metal. Improving visibility by cutting away any trees that block the view of any vulnerable metals will be in view of security measures. Businesses could also apply a forensic solution to mark lead, whilst putting up warning signs for this deterring any would be thieves.
Report it
Call your local Police on 101. However, in an emergency always use 999. 101 is the number to call if, for example:
- a vehicle has been stolen
- property has been damaged
- you’re giving information about other crime
The number can be used to report a non-emergency to any Police Force in Wales. Calls to 101 from landlines and mobile networks cost 15p per call, no matter what time of day you call or how long you are on the phone.
In an emergency, always dial 999. This is when immediate action is required, such as:
- a crime is in progress
- someone suspected of a crime is near by
- someone’s life is at risk
- someone is injured
- there is violence being used or threatened