Warning after theft bid ends in blast

OLDHAM police have warned would-be thieves not to dice with death following a £100,000 explosion in an underground water tank.

Officers fear a person may have been badly burned in Thursday’s explosion in Honeywell Lane, which it is believed was sparked by thieves trying to steal metal.

The incident happened at 6.30pm when a brick building containing the electrical equipment to control the water tank was broken into.

A fire was started in what officers believe was an attempt to steal metal from the room, resulting in the electrical equipment exploding.

An expert called in to survey the damage said the explosion would have been significant enough to cause burns to anyone within close range.

Officers checked the area around the building and made inquiries with hospitals in a bid to find out if anyone has sought treatment for burns, but have so far drawn a blank.

The cost to repair the damage caused by the explosion is estimated to be around £100,000.

Supt Catherine Hankinson, from Oldham police, said: “Obviously we are deeply concerned that there is someone out there with injuries. If you are in need of medical attention, come forward and treatment will be the first priority.”

She added: “If someone you know has arrived home with burned clothes get them to come forward. They need to realise that making money from stealing metal is not worth putting themselves in such danger.

“Once again we must stress the life-threatening dangers of tampering with electricity sub-stations.

“Stealing cable or wiring may seem easy money to some parts of the criminal community, but the consequences can be absolutely terrible.

“This is not the first time someone has diced with death to steal a few pounds worth of cable, but the time has come for people to realise it is simply not worth the risk.”

Anyone with information is asked to call officers in Oldham on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555 111.