Thieves put the lives of residents at risk when they attempted to steal copper gas piping.
Gwent Police is appealing for information following three incidents of attempted theft and criminal damage caused to copper gas piping in the Caerphilly area.
The three incidents happened on Thursday March 10 on the Hendredenny housing estate. The first at 11.50am on Carmarthen Court, the second at 12.10pm on Pembroke Court and the third at 12.30pm on Conway Court.
Police officers and representatives from the gas board attended each incident immediately and the gas supply to each property was quickly shut off to ensure the safety of local residents.
Officers are now investigating the incidents and would appeal for anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area to contact them immediately on 101.
Superintendent Jon Burley said: “Theft of scrap metal is an increasing problem across the borough and an offence we take very seriously. This type of crime is not only a financial burden for the victim but can also be very dangerous and put lives at risk.
“I would urge anyone with information relating to these incidents to contact us, no matter how insignificant they think it may be. An individual’s description or the registration of a vehicle can assist enquiries greatly.”
Anyone who witnesses someone attempting to steal copper gas piping or believes their gas piping has been tampered with or damaged, is urged to contact Wales and West Utilities on 0870 165 0597 and the police.