In response to the ongoing problem of copper wire theft in the province, the Alberta RCMP is launching a new initiative.
Officers from the RCMP Central and Eastern District Crime Reduction Units, K Division Criminial Analysis section, Community Safety and Wellness Branch and industry partners will be joining forces to determine areas being targeted and work on ways to "investigate, identify, and ultimately arrest the individuals who are causing the most harm."
"Precious metals like copper are used in a variety of projects ranging from large scale industrial sites like power plants, cellphone towers, and pipelines, to smaller uses like the wiring in homes," notes a release announcing the new initiative.
"Copper wire and other precious metals can be difficult to track making them ideal targets for criminals to steal. The theft of copper wire can have a large impact on the public, whether it’s having spare wire stolen from your personal property or damage caused to vital infrastructure across the province."
According to the release, damages from copper wire theft were in excess of $10 million.
The release continues that there are a variety of ways landowners can "reduce the likelihood of copper wire theft."
Items recommended are:
- Install an alarm and camera with remote monitoring.
- Ensure entrances on commercial properties are well-lit with security cameras plainly visible.
- Have precious metals laser engraved so that they are readily identified if they are stolen and subsequently recovered.
- Metal purchasers are cautioned to be wary of purchasing from unknown or suspicious sellers.
- Ensure everything of valuable is locked in a secure area.
- Make sure fencing is adequate and well-maintained.
- Report suspicious persons or behaviour witnessed at worksites or on your property.
“The reality of the situation is, because copper wire is so common and can be almost impossible to identify if it isn’t laser engraved, catching and charging copper wire thieves can be very difficult,” said Staff Sergeant John Pike District Advisory non-commissioned officer of the RCMP Eastern Alberta District. “There are thousands of sites using copper wire, and we can’t be at all of them. That’s why it’s so important for everyone do their part whether it's securing your property, reporting suspicious activity, or questioning sellers.”
Anyone seeing anything suspicious or with information regarding crimes in the community is asked to call their local RCMP detachment or local police service.
