Any one know which yard it was.
A BIRKENHEAD scrap yard has been closed down as part of a police operation to combat the theft of metal.
Officers said yesterday's operation was set up in response to concerns raised by the local community about the increasing value of scrap metal and the potential for criminals to steal it.
They said a key part of the drive was to talk with with scrap metal dealers, so they can play their part in preventing metal thefts throughout the region as well as deterring criminals from engaging in this type of activity.
Officers have also been issuing advice to householders, businesses and religious centres about how they can protect themselves.
Throughout the day, 35 scrap dealers were visited across the region: There were 16 arrests, 12 for metal theft related offences, two for possession of a controlled drug, one on suspicion of robbery and one on suspicion of rape.
More than 100 vehicles were stop checked and five fixed penalties were issued.
The Birkenhead scrap yard was closed for being unlicensed.
British Transport Police gathered evidence and are working on following up further leads.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Cowdrey said: "While some criminals may see metal theft as a profitable business we are determined to show that if people are involved in this type of crime we will take action and they will be caught.
"Due to the escalating value of metals such as lead and copper, they have become attractive to thieves who are then exchanging them for cash. Churches and other religious buildings can often be attractive to metal thieves.
"Today, acting on concerns from residents about a potential increase in thefts as the price of metal rises, we took visible and direct action with the help of our partners.
"The spotlight was on the dealers today and officers have been visiting them to make sure they know all the regulations and are not storing stolen property.
"Metal theft is something that has caused misery to many and we’re determined to work with our partner agencies to clamp down on it.
"Residents and criminals should be aware that today was just the beginning of our focus on this type of crime and we will be carrying out further work around the area."
He added: "The community are our eyes and ears and by sharing information and intelligence we can target those involved in this crime and bring them to justice."
If you have any information about the theft of metal contact Police on 0151 709 6010 or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
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