Rhondda Cynon Taf council is urging the public to be on their guard after a spate of serious thefts of drain covers, manhole covers and even cables along train lines.
This week commuters in the Rhondda faced disruption after vandals damaged signaling equipment and attempted to steal cables which caused hours of delays for passengers traveling between Treherbert and Pontypridd.
It is believed the incidents are due to thieves selling cabling, iron and metal for high prices to scrap metal dealers who flout the law.
Last year more than £6,000 worth of drain covers were stolen along the A4119 from Llantrisant to Clydach Vale, putting driver’s lives at risk. The incident caused severe disruption to motorists as the road was closed to avoid potential accidents.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Customer Care and Emergency Planning Cllr Andrew Morgan said: “I am growing increasingly concerned of the amount of thefts of this nature taking place in the county borough which include items ranging from manhole covers to power cables and street lights.
“Clearly these are then being sold to scrap merchants who are breaking the law by receiving the items. By working with South Wales Police we hope to eradicate such behaviour in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
“But I would also urge residents to remain vigilant against such individuals. If anyone sees anything suspicious then they should contact the police immediately and report it.”
Anyone with information can contact the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
