Brass And Copper Theft A Growing Problem

Brass and copper theft, primarily stolen for scrap metal, is an expensive problem for many businesses and residents around Johannesburg.

A few recent incidents in broad daylight in Elma Park has prompted Fidelity ADT to once again issue a warning to businesses and residents.

Renee Coltham, Community Development Manager for Fidelity ADT says, “We are seeing a growing trend of criminals stealing copper or brass house numbers for the same reason. Opportunistic criminals are seeing these as easy pickings.”

Although Elma Park as recently been targeted, it is a problem across several areas in Gauteng. Particularly hard hit areas include Benoni, Boksburg and Kempton Park. Local security companies and the local CPF are appealing to all residents to keep a look out for the perpetrators of these crimes.Having a clearly visible home number outside your house is very important in an emergency so that responders can find you as quickly as possible.”

She offers the following tips:

• Consider painting your house numbers on your wall or on your pavement• Buy durable stick on plastic numbers• Do not buy brass or copper numbers from someone on the side of the road as it is very likely that these have been stolen

“This kind of theft has to be reported. We do not recommend residents intervene in anyway as suspects could be dangerous, but rather report any suspicious behaviour to their local SAPS department.”

ENDSCOMPILED ON BEHALF OF FIDELITY ADT BY CATHY FINDLEY PR. MEDIA QUERIES CONTACT JACQUI MOLOI ON 0717648233 OR This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..