Force in copper thefts crackdown

Stolen copper can fetch a high price

Police on Teesside have joined forces with telecoms giant Virgin Media to stem growing thefts of copper.

Officers believe thefts are rising because of the increased cost of precious metals on the open markets.

In May Virgin customers on Teesside had services interrupted when thieves ripped out underground copper cables.

Cleveland Police say criminals are taking stolen metal to scrap yards for quick sales and want operators to be more vigilant in what they accept.

A Cleveland force spokesman said: "There has been an increase in reported thefts as thieves target metals ranging from small amounts of lead flashing from roofs, to larger amounts from churches and schools to high value thefts of copper cables.

Malicious damage

"Such criminal property is then being weighed in for instant cash.

"Officers have recovered suspected stolen property from one scrap yard.

"The operation has also targeted criminals intending to weigh in criminal property."

Malcolm Davies, head of fraud and security for Virgin Media, said: "We take this threat to our business extremely seriously and will continue to utilise whatever resource is required to identify those perpetrating these thefts.

"We will not tolerate anyone causing malicious damage to our network and will prosecute with a view to securing heavy fines or a custodial sentence for those found guilty."

As a result of the operation, two people have so far been arrested, two vehicles seized, as well as a substantial amount of copper.