Safety fears after batteries stolen in Fife

Danger: Police say leaking acid could pose a problem

Police in Fife have expressed fears for public safety following the theft of a number of large batteries.

In all, 63 batteries have been stolen from roadworks, building sites and recycling centres.

Twenty-four of them have been taken from Pittenweem recycling centre and 12 from Glenrothes recycling centres since Monday April 11.

The remainder were working batteries taken from building site equipment or temporary traffic lights across Fife.

Police said the thefts could lead to problems with road safety and also expressed concern about leaking acid.

The batteries are mostly the size of car batteries with those from JCBs and generators being a bit larger. These will be instantly usable whereas the recycled ones have only a scrap value.

Officers are now urging anyone with information that can assist them in their investigation to please get in touch.

Sergeant David Hayes of Fife Community Safety Partnership said: “These thefts could cause serious road safety issues in addition to the cost to the contractor or local authority.

“There are also safety concerns around the acid in the batteries if they are being stripped down for the scrap value.

“Anyone with information that can help us trace those responsible is asked to contact us on 101.”

Alternatively, people can report suspicions anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.