Scrap prices tempt thieves

Jan 30 2008 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

THIEVES are stealing manhole covers in Ellesmere Port because of the high value of scrap metal, according to police.

Cheshire police say the Westminster area has been particularly targeted, with a variety of items taken during the past few weeks.

Inspector Simon Roberts, of Ellesmere Port and Neston Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “The market price of metal has made these things extremely attractive to thieves and although the value has dropped recently, it is still high enough to be tempting to criminals.

“Those responsible are indiscriminate in who they target, with homes, businesses and highways all being recent victims.

“Nor are those responsible afraid of carrying out their crimes in public. The most recent theft happened at around 3.15pm on a residential street.”

This theft, of a manhole cover, happened on Grace Road on Friday, when a group of four youths pulled up in a small white hatchback, possibly a Ford Fiesta.

Two stayed with the car while two others removed the manhole and then made off when they were disturbed.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to ring 0845 458 6373 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”