Ayrshire firms targeted by metal thieves

Oct 3 2008 by Eric McGowan, Irvine Herald

CROOKS are cashing in on the credit crunch – thanks to the rise in the value of scrap metal.

Police say raids on builders’ yards and commercial premises, where metals like copper are plentiful, are up because thieves realise their sell-on scrap value.

Businesses in Irvine and Kilwinning are now being advised to beef up security to thwart opportunist criminals.

Inspector Kevin Owens, of Ayrshire’s U Division of Strathclyde Police, said: “Commercial premises have been targeted for goods which can be easily sold.

“Unoccupied properties are also targets for thieves who steal copper and other metals to sell on for its scrap value which is currently higher than normal.

“I would urge the business community and the general public to be vigilant and report suspicious activity to us.”

Information to Irvine police on 01294 404400 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Security advice for businesses is available from community safety officers at Irvine police on 01294 404420.