METAL THEFT

'Metal theft' is the theft of metal items on a large scale. These thefts usually increase when prices for scrap metal rise.
This is a serious issue in Ukraine, where statues, wires, sewage hatches, and even a museum-exhibit steam locomotive have been stolen for sale as scrap. In February 2004, thieves in western Ukraine dismantled and stole an 11m long, one-tonne steel bridge that spanned the river Svalyavka. Another bridge was stolen in Russia in 2007.^[1][2]
From July to September 2005, a gang of thieves in Brunei dismantled and stole parts from more than 60 power substations in that country, including copper earthing cables and aluminum doors. It is apparently being sold as scrap metal. The thefts are ongoing.
In February 2006, near the German city of Weimar, thieves dismantled and carted away some 5 km (3 miles) of disused rail track. It is estimated that replacing the rails will cost nearly 200,000 euros ($241,500 USD). [1]
In Quebec, during May 2006, thieves stole sections of copper roofing, gutters and wiring from four Quebec city churches, two being St. Charles de Limoilou and St. Francois d'Assise. The thieves were discovered in action on their third night, whereupon they fled. High copper prices are believed to be the reason for the thefts. Repairs are expected to cost more that $40,000.[2]
Metal theft is also a problem in metro Atlanta, with reports of air conditioning thefts from a few home and commercial sites. In April 2007 there were even reports of mobile phone base station equipment being destroyed at tower sites on the south side. While each theft would net about 200 dollars in copper wire and feedline, each destroys about 100,000 dollars in equipment and repair costs.
Copper wire thefts are becoming increasingly common in the United States of America. With copper prices at $3.70 a pound as of June 2007, compared to $0.60 a pound in 2002, people are increasingly stealing copper wire from telephone and power company assets. Gangs have been created, a black market for copper wire has emerged, drug dealers even accept copper wire as cash, and men even have been killed in power plants while trying to obtain copper wire. [3]
This term is not to be confused with medal theft, the theft of medals given as rewards for achievements or military action. They are often stolen for resale to collectors.
1. http://www.mirror-guardian.com/news/Scarborough/Column/article/30677
2. http://uk.reuters.com/article/oddlyEnoughNews/idUKL3116489920070831

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See also

External links

See also

★ Manhole cover theft

★ Street sign theft

External links

★ Thieves steal bridge in Ukraine

★ Home burglars take staircase, kitchen sink Boston Globe, retrieved Jan 8, 2006

★ Copper wire theft kills 2