Police are steeled for action

TOUGH action is being taken by police in a bid to clamp down on the number of metal thefts in Oldham.

A special operations squad and Oldham Council’s enforcement officers have been out in force striving to put the brakes on the theft.

The borough has seen a surge in properties targeted..

Over the past week the team have stopped vehicles transporting suspected stolen metal, like copper, aluminium and steel as part of Operation Sashkia.

Supt Catherine Hankinson, said: “Metal theft is becoming an increasing problem across the country and Oldham is no exception.

“Far from this being a minor crime, it causes a lot of inconvenience for victims and is a very lucrative ‘business’ for local criminals.

“We are taking this issue really seriously and are doing a lot of work in partnership with Oldham Council.”

The operation covers the whole of Oldham — but police revealed places like Derker have been hotspots.

Police state items like boilers, garden furniture and ladders have been stolen.

This latest action will not be the last, with officers continuing their tough crackdown in coming weeks.

Sgt Jamie Smart, said: “The thieves may steal a boiler, worth a £100, but they potentially leave thousands of pounds worth of damage for the owner, all for their own greed.

“We have been gathering intelligence from the public and we are sending out a strong message that we are taking this seriously.”

If you have been approached by people collecting metal call your neighbourhood police team on 0161-872 5050.