Metal theft

Gloucestershire Crimestoppers has launched a campaign aimed at helping to tackle metal thefts in the county.

The campaign, which involves the distribution of publicity material, aims to raise the profile of this growing area of crime and encourage the public to report information on offenders by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Jamie Eykyn, Chairman of the Gloucestershire Crimestoppers Board, said: “Metal theft has been on the increase in Gloucestershire in recent years, with 2007 seeing a 25% increase in offences compared to the previous year.

“The police have made a significant number of arrests for these offences, but we still need to encourage the public to report their suspicions on whoever is responsible for these offences to us.

“People ringing Crimestoppers can be confident that all information is dealt with anonymously, and cash rewards are even on offer.

“We also aim to raise awareness of the issue through our campaign, so that people can take precautions to safeguard their own property from this ever more prevalent crime.”

Premises targeted by metal thieves include churches and other religious buildings, where lead is predominantly stolen; electricity substations, where copper wiring is taken; housing developments, where copper piping is taken; and industrial estates, which are targeted for scrap metal.

The campaign is asking for information about:

• Who the thieves are
• Who is trading in illegal metal
• When and where crimes are likely to take place
• Where are illegal materials being kept after they are stolen, and by whom

Anyone with information about the above should call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or fill out our anonymous online Giving Information Form.