Roadside gully covers are stolen

PEOPLE in Staffordshire are being asked to report any incidents of missing or stolen metal roadside drainage covers, also known as gully covers, following a spate of thefts.

The reminder follows the theft of over 32 metal drain covers – mainly in the south of the county – between Saturday, May 21, and Tuesday, May 24.

Officers from Staffordshire Police, alongside Staffordshire County Council, are now appealing for the public’s help to catch thieves operating in the area.

Chief Inspector Dave Wain, of South Staffordshire Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), said: “The theft of gully covers is a serious issue that can cause real problems within local communities. We are currently pursuing a number of lines of enquiry and the investigation is very much ongoing to locate those carrying out these thefts.

“If anyone sees someone removing drain covers and the crime is in action, please report it to the police on 999. By reporting the crime whilst it’s taking place, we have a better chance of catching the criminals in action.”

Highways officers are also keen to point out that when covers or grids are stolen, holes are left in the road or the pavement which can result in serious harm and injury to drivers, pedestrians, children and cyclists.

David Williams, highways chief at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Stealing gully covers is incredibly dangerous and a serious issue that can cause real problems on the roads and injury to people.

“As well as the obvious risk to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, replacing covers also takes crews away from other duties, not to mention the extra costs to the council and local taxpayer.”

Anyone who has information which may assist the investigation, such as CCTV or dash-cam footage of thefts in action, or information about vehicles being used by offenders, is asked to call police on 101 or report online at: Report a crime | Staffordshire Police

You can also send a private message to Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter. Alternatively, you can give information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

You can also report missing covers and other highways issues on the Mystaffs App or at www. staffordshire.gov.uk.