Operation Tackles Redditch Drain Cover Thefts

Police have launched an operation tackling drain cover thefts in Redditch after more than 800 were taken during the last five months.

Operation Iota has been launched after a series of thefts between September 2011 and January 2012.

The drains cost around £250 each to replace, leaving Worcestershire County Council with a £200,000 bill.

Leaflets appealing for information are being delivered to homes and businesses in the affected areas.

PC Tom Birchley of West Mercia Police said: "The main areas being targeted are Redditch South and South West, and predominantly industrial rather than residential areas.

"The thefts are usually overnight, between 10pm and 5am, and we believe the offenders are using hired vans to transport the drain covers.

"The theft of drain covers hit us all in the pocket as they need to be replaced out of public funds, but aside from the cost issue, there are serious safety implications, and therefore it is essential people are vigilant.

"Dog walkers, shift workers or anyone else who is regularly out and about at night or early in a morning could be a huge help to us by ringing in with details of anything suspicious."

PC Birchley warned officers on patrol would be checking vans, and checks are also made with van hire firms and at scrapyards.

Witnesses or anyone who sees or hears anything suspicious at night is asked to contact West Mercia Police on 0300 333 3000 quoting Operation Iota, or incident 184-s-270112, or alternatively ring the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Issued: Tuesday, 31 January 2012