In December 2009 there were at least 30 instances of theft of items such as scrap metal, cabling, lead from roofs, car batteries and components and pipes and plumbing supplies. So far in January 2010 (to 27th) there have been at least 46 reported thefts across Suffolk.

The value of metal has increased over time, and people should be vigilant in protecting their property and that of their neighbours. Owners of properties vulnerable to metal theft are urged to make their buildings and sites as secure as possible to keep criminals out. Where possible it is advised to use security lighting to deter thieves, and CCTV can also deter as well as capturing images of offenders and their vehicles. All gates and entrances to premises should be properly secured. Valuable property can be marked and photos taken, to identify it if it's recovered. Industrial Watches are in place in many areas, contact your Community Watch Liaison Officer on 01473 613500 for further details.

In some cases several thousand pounds worth of metal in its various forms has been stolen from premises, which takes a considerable amount of time to remove and a vehicle to transport. Any sightings of persons acting suspiciously near building sites or any property with lead roofing, or cold calling looking for scrap metal should be reported to police.

Anyone with any information about metal theft should contact Suffolk Police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Or

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report+Information+To+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team