Metal thefts warning
POLICE are advising people in Wear Valley to be vigilant following a number of recent metal thefts across the area. (May 2 edition)Items stolen in the last few days include wrought iron gates from the garden of a house at Stanhope, a set of ladders from a building at Willington and a manhole cover from an inspection hatch in a garden at Crook.
A metallic advertising sign and alloy wheels have also been taken. PC Mike Sammut, beat officer for Howden and Witton-le-Wear, said: "There has been a spate of these thefts in the last few days at varying times of the day and night in different parts of the county.
“It would seem that the increased value of scrap metal and lead is encouraging criminals to target even quite small items.
"We would urge residents and business people to do what they can to prevent premises and vehicles being targeted.
“Items in a vulnerable position should be hidden from open view and, if possible, stored in a secure place."
Anyone who has information regarding the activities of people involved in these thefts can contact police on 0845 6060 365 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A spokeswoman from Durham Constabulary said: “Durham Constabulary continues to target criminals involved in theft of scrap and other metals through a number of forcewide initiatives.
Crime prevention advice is also available and can be arranged with neighbourhood policing teams.”
For more details, visit www.durham.police.uk
