Published: Wednesday, 10th September, 2008 08:00
Beware scrap metal hunters
By Annabel Williams
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HOUSEHOLDERS are being warned to look out for burglars posing as scrap metal hunters after a motorbike was stolen from a house.
Thieves broke into the home and took tools which they then used to break the padlocks off the property’s stables in Whitehall Lane, Checkendon.
Items including a royal blue 1,100cc pit/motorcross bike, made by Zongshen, were taken.
Around six weeks before the incident, which happened overnight between Tuesday, September 2 and Wednesday, September 3, a man was seen in the house’s driveway who said he was looking for scrap metal.
Detective Constable Georgina Bradley, investigating the incident, said: “The neighbours did not see or hear any activity in the middle of the night but it is thought that the offenders may have been disturbed by a neighbour’s light.
“About six weeks ago, a man was seen at the property wandering down the drive. The occupant challenged the man who then said he was looking for scrap metal.
“The man left in a white, old-style Ford transit pick-up, possibly K registered, and he was with another man who was driving the van.
“I would like to warn residents that if they have people calling at their houses looking for scrap metal that this could be suspicious.
“If anyone has people calling at their houses asking about cars on their driveways being for sale or the possibility of any scrap metal then I would like to encourage them to record any vehicle details and contact us as soon as possible.
“Theft of metal is happening across the country and we are keen to catch any offenders in our area.”
Contact Abingdon-based Det Con Bradley through Thames Valley Police’s enquiry centre on 08458 505 505, or call charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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