In short:
Police are investigating three alleged copper and scrap metal thefts across Melbourne’s west, including a $300,000 theft from a Plumpton depot. Detectives have released images of three men and a flatbed truck as they appeal for public assistance.
Police Looking For Copper Bandits
Transit Division Response Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a series of scrap metal thefts across Melbourne’s west that allegedly netted more than $300,000 worth of copper and equipment.
Police allege two or three men targeted a business on Maria Street in Laverton North about 3am on 27 April.
It is alleged the group used a flatbed truck to load scrap metal and copper worth about $5,000 before driving away.
Investigators believe the same group struck again three days later at a business on Vella Drive in Sunshine West.
Police allege about $5,000 worth of copper cable was stolen during the incident, which occurred about 3.15am on 30 April. A flatbed truck was seen in the area at the time.
The largest theft allegedly occurred on 7 May when a depot on Holden Road in Plumpton was broken into about 3am.
Police allege approximately $300,000 worth of copper and equipment was stolen during that incident.
Detectives have released images of three men they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries, along with a vehicle seen in the area at the time of the alleged offences.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.
