SIXTY kilos of copper cabling, believed to have been stolen from British Telecom, has been recovered after police raided two East Lancashire scrapyards.

Officers visited scrap-metal yards in Blackburn and Great Harwood on Wednesday to crack down on metal thieves.

The copper, worth an estimated £2,000, will now be subject to an investigation by police working with British Telecom.

Launched last week, the police operation has seen officers on patrol in hotspot areas of Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley, and visits to scrap dealers.

Traffic officers have been monitoring vehicles entering yards and carrying out random checks on waste carriers. Letters have also been sent to known criminals.

Sgt James Black said: “It is likely the copper was stolen from the Fishmoor area. Our inquiries continue to find out who was responsible.

“People often think the theft of scrap metal is a victimless crime. In fact, it can cause more financial problems due to the damage caused after the theft.

“People should be reassured the police treat these crimes very seriously. Those responsible can expect prison sentences.”

Detective Inspector Andrea Rainey, of British Transport Police, said: “Days of action are key to our approach to tackling metal theft.

“By visiting recyclers we can educate them about what to look for when people bring metal into their yards and, at the same time, reinforce the message that all police forces take metal theft extremely seriously and will be intrusive in ensuring recyclers adhere to licensing regulations and the law.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 0845 125 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.