Security bosses warn of rise in UK building site thefts by organised crime

Concerns thefts could accelerate over Christmas shutdown, with tools and equipment increasingly targeted

Thefts of tools and equipment from building sites are increasingly being carried out by organised criminal groups, according to security bosses, amid warnings that the crimewave could accelerate during the Christmas construction shutdown.

Copper cables, tools and even telehandlers and diggers costing tens of thousands of pounds have been stolen in recent months, according to the security firm Kingdom Systems.