ACPO update on metal theft day of action on 14th December 2011

Police across England and Wales visited more than 400 scrap metal recyclers during the recent national day of action.

As a result more than 160 yards were searched by officers, 45 people were arrested and 14 tonnes of suspected stolen cable was recovered.

Police across the country joined forces with a number of agencies, including the Environment Agency, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, BT and Network Rail, to target thieves and unscrupulous scrap dealers.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Crowther, ACPO lead for metal theft, said:

“Metal theft is a huge, cross-industry, problem which is not only having a massive impact on the economy, but also communities across the nation.

“The day of action was designed to drive home the message that metal theft will not be tolerated and that all agencies will work together to tackle the issue.

“There is no doubt that, with the number of yards visited, we have shown the metal recycling industry that we are determined to take action and will make life difficult for those thieves or unscrupulous dealers who seek to profit from criminal behaviour.”

DCC Crowther added: “These days of action will continue throughout 2012 as we seek to further limit opportunities for criminals.

“I would like to thank all those who worked with the police during the day of action and look forward to working with all partners in the new year.”

Lord Henley, Minister of State for Crime Prevention and Anti-Social Behaviour Reduction, said:

"Metal theft is a serious and growing problem and the government is working hard with industry, police and law enforcement agencies to tackle it.

“It is clear that a law dating back to the 1960s is not sufficient to deal with an increasingly organised crime. That is why we are looking at a range of legislative options, including ending payments in cash for scrap metal.

“Days of action like this show how partnership working can really help to crackdown on metal theft and bring these unscrupulous criminals to justice.”

For more information or media bids, please contact Glyn Hellam on 07920 509 112.

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk