LAKELAND – Ongoing concerns of copper wire theft in eastern Alberta have prompted Alberta RCMP to launch a community initiative to hopefully reduce thefts.
In St. Paul, the RCMP detachment told Lakeland This Week in a statement that it received only one report of copper wire theft in the last four months but urges people to still be cautious.
Potential thefts could be deterred by installing security devices, such as motion sensors and alarms, video surveillance, and installation of fencing around locations with access to copper wire, advises St. Paul RCMP.
According to the detachment, the energy industry is typically targeted in copper write thefts.
In an Oct. 1 press release, Alberta RCMP noted that in its new community initiative, it will be working with industry partners to determine areas in eastern Alberta being targeted by thefts.
It will then develop strategies to arrest individuals causing the most damage from stealing copper wires and other types of metals.
“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, the district advisory non-commissioned officer of the RCMP Eastern Alberta District.
And because copper wires are being used at thousands of sites, RCMP cannot respond to all thefts, added Pike.
“That’s why it’s so important for everyone to do their part whether it's securing your property, reporting suspicious activity, or questioning sellers,” he said.
In addition to security installation, reporting suspicious activity, and being cautious to unknown or suspicious sellers, Alberta RCMP also advises the public to laser engrave their precious metals to allow for easier identification and return if it is stolen.
If you want to report a crime, call 911 or your local RCMP detachment. To provide anonymous tips, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS), or visit: p3tips.com
