Cracking down on metal theft

Officers in Laindon set up stop checks on vans and cars as part of a crackdown on metal theft in the area.

On Wednesday, March 23, 2011, following a recent growing trend in theft of metal, officers checked more than 10 vehicles that had recently used local scrap dealers. 
Officers took the details of the drivers and vehicles to ensure that they were not selling on stolen metal and visited local scrap yards to stop thieves making a profit from stolen loot.

Workers at the scrap yards were spoken to to make sure they were taking the correct details from people selling them metal.

Sgt Paul Costin of the Laindon neighbourhood policing team, said: “Metal theft is a growing national crime problem, and we have suffered recently across Basildon at the hands of these thieves. By ensuring that scrap yards have their books in order and they work with police, we can make sure that thieves do not have anywhere to sell on their goods.

“Metal theft is not a victimless crime; it not only causes building owners and councils the hassle and expense of replacing stolen items, but can cause significant building damage too, and we have all seen the consequences of that recently as a local school had to close its doors because of the damage.

“The operation has been successful, as we have caused disruption to people travelling to scrap yards, giving out the strong message that metal theft will not be tolerated and we will catch you if you commit crime in this area.”

Police are urging people to be vigilant around buildings such as schools and churches and to contact police immediately if they see someone on a roof or a crime in progress.