A 41-year-old Devonport man has been charged with several offences, including the stealing of a gas meter from a Devonport laundromat, which caused a gas leak early on Tuesday morning.
The man has also been charged with offences relating to the theft of copper from surrounding buildings on the same morning, along with breaching bail, and drug and driving offences.
Police say metal theft is an ongoing issue which impacts critical infrastructure, businesses, and communities and the theft of copper, aluminium and other metals not only poses safety risks but also results in substantial financial losses for victims.
As part of the crack down, police say they will be increasing patrols and inspections at metal recycling facilities along the North-West Coast to ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations.
They say community involvement and vigilance are crucial in deterring such criminal behaviour and they’re asking people to report any suspicious activity to police on 131 444, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or on-line at at crimestopperstas.com.au.
