Gwent Police warn of the dangers of metal theft
(CF83 - Friday, 9 January, 2009)

Gwent Police today reiterated its warning that the theft of metal is not only a serious crime which affects all members of the community it is also a very dangerous activity which can cause serious injury or death.

The warning follows the theft of electricity power cables from Senghenydd mountain between Caerphilly late on Thursday the 8th of January or early on Friday 9th January and caused considerable disruption to the electricity supply of several local communities in the area.

Inspector Terry Davies from the Community Safety Department said:

"Those who steal metal are not just risking a prison sentence, they are risking their lives. The thieves were lucky in this latest incident but as we know others who have embarked on this form of criminality have tragically lost their lives."

"The victims of these crimes include schools, hospitals, businesses and ordinary householders. The disruption and damage that is caused by thefts of metal far outweigh the modest profit made by the thieves from weighing the items in for scrap."

"I would encourage members of the public to report anything which could help us with our enquiries. By contacting us about this incident you could save the life of someone, before they try this again."

If anyone has any information they should contact Gwent Police on 01633 838111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Police Force: Gwent

Address:
Senghenydd mountain
Senghenydd
Caerphilly
MID GLAMORGAN
CF83