Last updated at 20:09, Thursday, 17 June 2010

SEVEN people were arrested in raids around Workington on Tuesday aimed at tackling scrap metal theft.

The men, all from the Workington area and between 18 and 42, were arrested on suspicion of theft of scrap metal and fraud.

The arrests were part of Operation Bazooka, which was launched in April, to target people suspected of theft of metal across West Cumbria.

Police say that scrap is being stolen because its price has risen; a tonne of copper worth £2,000 two years ago now costs £6,000.

About 20 police were involved and officers recovered suspected stolen metals and tools.

Police carried out road checks at Clay Flatts and Derwent Howe and fined one driver for not having a waste carrier licence .

Sergeant Dave Bennett, of Workington police, said: “These arrests are part of a commitment to tackle this type of crime in Workington. Anyone with information can contact Workington police on 0845 3300 247 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police have made 31 arrests since starting the operation in April.

First published at 19:25, Thursday, 17 June 2010
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk