News

Around fifty breakers' yards and scrap metal dealers across Kent have been targeted in a joint operation to combat metal theft last week.

Chief Superintendent Steve Corbishley, Head of Partnership and Communities said: 'Metal theft is a national problem and one of the UK's fastest growing crimes, and it's having an impact on communities in Kent.

'We've had church roofs and school buildings targeted, telephone cable and manhole covers stolen and even a handrail from the promenade at Cliftonville taken by thieves recently.

'Around 15 million tonnes of metal is recovered nationally each year, with a sale value of £13 billion which gives an illustration into the significant scale of this criminality, due to the rising value of commodities like copper.

'We are visiting scrap metal dealers, and will continue to work with partner agencies on these days of action to raise awareness and to target suspects when we have information they are involved in crime.'

Police are urging the public to report any suspicious sightings such as people working late at night on roofs or activity around manhole covers. Officers say that is very important during the summer holidays when schools are typically empty.

As part of the metal theft day of action organised by British Transport Police on Friday (29 July), Kent Police seized a number of vehicles including a forklift truck and a tractor.

They also made one arrest for disqualified driving and dealt with more than thirty offences of illegally carrying waste by issuing 29 fixed penalty tickets, one caution and five people being reported.

To report suspicious activity call Kent Police on 01622 690690. If you have information about metal theft or any crime call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©