West Midlands Police are investigating the theft of 35 drain covers taken from roadsides in Walsall since last weekend, bringing the total to 50 drain cover thefts this month.
The drain covers have largely gone missing in the Bloxwich and Willenhall area with reports that the thieves were wearing high visibility clothing and driving a white 2006 Transit van.
It’s presumed that the covers are being sold as scrap metal.
The issue is causing some concern due to the risk to pedestrians and road users, particularly at night when the hole that is left is harder to spot.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, said:
“We are deploying a fast response team to make each reported location safe and for replacement covers to be installed as soon as possible. However, in most cases this means having to dig up the road and install a new drain cover and metal frame which is both time consuming and costly.”
The thefts have been reported to West Midlands Police who are investigating the thefts. It is thought that the covers may have been taken to be sold as scrap metal.
Councillor Andrew added:
“I would encourage members of the public to help us tackle thefts by being extra vigilant and to report any missing manholes or gully covers as soon as possible to our contact centre on 01922 650000.”