POLICE are urging residents to secure anything of value at the front of their premises and restrict any access to the rear after a spate of scrap metal merchants ‘helping themselves’.
The call comes from Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team and a spokesperson said: “Unfortunately we are still getting reports of ‘scrap metal’ collectors helping themselves to items left outside of houses and businesses, whether it was meant for them or not.
“In some cases the collectors have been seen to go around the side or even behind premises to take things. This is obviously theft and should be reported to police on 101 as soon as possible. Scrap collectors should be registered with the local authority and have a collectors licence visible in their vehicle. We offer the following advice:-
If you have items of scrap for collection, contact a local licenced dealer who will usually collect for free. The local council also provide a bulk collection service for a charge.
If you intend to leave items out in the hope that it is picked up by a passing collector, remember you are encouraging them to access your property (and possibly your neighbour’s) to collect.
“If you see items being taken from premises and skips which you believe should not be taken, call the police on 101 straight away with the description of the people and vehicles involved.”
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