Theft of manhole cover ‘putting lives at risk’

POLICE in Lisburn are warning the lives of road users and pedestrians could have been put at risk following the theft of a manhole cover last week.

Police say they received a report that the cover had been removed on the Barnfield Road last Thursday, August 18. And they say it could have caused a serious accident.

A police spokesman said: “Due to the current high price of scrap metal, the theft of manhole covers has emerged over the past few years as a significant issue throughout the Northern Ireland, the Republic and elsewhere.

“This practice is causing a real hazard on our roads and has the potential to lead to serious accidents. Most incidents take place at night and there is an increasing worry that pedestrians, cyclists and even cars may not see the danger they are approaching.

“There is also a cost implication in replacing the covers however police would urge those involved in such thefts to consider not only the financial cost put also the possibility that they could cost someone their life.”

A spokesperson for the DRD said: “The theft of any ironwork or manhole cover presents a significant safety hazard to the public.

“Roads Service would appeal for these thefts to stop in order that our roads and footways stay safe.”

Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to ring the police on 0845-6008000 or use the Crimestoppers number which is 0800555111.