Thieves target recycling bins

Jul 8 2008 By Lucy Proctor

Recycling bins like the ones stolen

It seems the credit crunch is having an effect on the criminal underworld as hard-up thieves resort to stealing bins.

In Chiswick six bins have been dismantled so far and their frames stolen, with cunning crooks telling curious residents they worked for the council.

Cllr Barbara Reid, lead member for environment, said she was outraged, adding: “This crime deprives people of an important amenity, and will leave them without recycling facilities for a period while we organise replacements.

“It will also impact upon the borough’s overall recycling performance at a time when we have worked so hard to increase it.

“If these are genuine workers, they will be wearing clothing marked ‘ECT’ or ‘EDS’ and be driving green and yellow coloured vehicles, which are branded with the Council’s logo.”

Bin cages were stolen from Edensor Gardens, Montgomery Court, Churchdale Court, Alexandra Gardens (2 frames missing) and there was one attempted theft from Staveley Gardens. All incidents took place last week.

If residents see any incident taking place, they are urged to report it to Hounslow Police on 020 8577 1212 with any number plate and vehicle details.