Police concern at rise in scrap thefts

Dyfed-Powys Police is appealing for vigilance following a spate thefts involving scrap metal.

A majority of the thefts have taken place at unsecured or un-inhabited locations, such as new builds or re-developments. There were 67 recorded offences of theft of Metal in Powys between 1 April 2010 and 1 November 2010.

To ensure members of the public take extra care and don’t become a victim Dyfed-Powys Police has highlighted ways to make life difficult for the criminals:

Don’t leave large amounts of metals unsecured or in unattended locations

Purchase smaller amounts so it is less attractive to the would—be-thief

Never buy metals privately, if so always go to the seller's house. A thief will not want to be traced to an address

Use protective marking on your metals such as Smartwater – the innovative liquid forensic coding system is an effective deterrent and assigns each user with their own DNA-style code, providing property with a forensic link back to the owner.

Communities and Partnerships Sergeant Kelvin Briggs said: “We have increased patrols and stop checks in the areas targeted to combat the issue. In addition, we are collaborating with neighbouring police forces to ensure intelligence sharing is utilised effectively and key suspects indentified who operate as travelling criminals.”

If you have information regarding these types of incidents, or have seen anything suspicious in your area, please call Dyfed-Powys Police on 101.