Cambridge business owner Vic Berzins has been hit three times in as many weeks by thieves looking to get their hands on copper wire and other precious metals.
In the latest theft, four suspects were seen running from Nabatech Communications on Sheldon Drive after an employee arrived while they were in the act.
Berzins said the thieves get into his gated yard and pry open their containers to get what they are after.
"I call them the can opener containers," he said. "They just come in here and try to take whatever they want."
Berzins hoped the 1,000-pound cement bollards he's added to his property would prevent would-be criminals from stealing, but to his surprise, they were able to move them and help themselves.
Nabatech's losses from the three thefts totals about $300,000 in materials and tools.
Part of Berzin's business involves removing and replacing communications boxes for Bell and Rogers. Copper wire and other precious metals from those jobs are stored on site.
"It just doesn't stop. They've gotten into every single container we have, every trailer and they just keep coming back," he said.
When asked about moving shop locations, Berzins said it's an option he's considered, but since Sheldon Drive is central to his business and he's been there 10 years, rental rates at other locations are too expensive.
Police are on the lookout for four suspects in connection to the weekend break-in.
One of Berzin's employees chased four suspects away, but not before one of them dropped damning evidence.
"So, the funny part is that one of the guys dropped their phone and it was unlocked," said Berzins. "So text messages, location of buyers, everything was on there."
The Cambridge business owner hopes that police can confront the buyers who are enabling the thieves.
"Someone is buying this stuff or they wouldn't be taking it," he said. "They don't come in cars it's almost always on foot or with their bikes. We have them on camera, but they don't care."
Police warn other business owners to consider the following safety measures to help prevent break and enters:
- Consider installing a surveillance/security system which can be monitored remotely.
- Ensure all currently installed surveillance/security systems are in good working order.
- Keep some lighting on inside for surveillance opportunities during the overnight hours.
- Report suspicious persons or vehicles observed during operating hours to police.
- The investigation remains ongoing by WRPS’ Break, Enter, and Vehicle Theft Team.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-570-9777 or, to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
