Metal thieves haunt cemeteries

With scrap metal prices nearing historic highs in the United States, robbers seem to be stealing everything, from metal plaques in cemeteries to plumbing pipes, gutters and even manhole covers.

Image: A bronze plaque marks a World War-II veteran's grave at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois. | Photograph: Scott Olson/Getty Images

The United States' scrap metal industry is seen at a massive $71 billion, and it has seen an unprecedented boom primarily because of the growing demand from India, China, Russia and other nations.

Image: A sign advertises prices paid for scrap metal at a recycling facility in Chicago, Illinois. | Photograph: Scott Olson/Getty Images

Scrap metal thieves are making the most of it with prices of copper, brass and other scrap metal soaring across the world.

The market prices of scrap metal in the US do not show the real value, but a growing global demand is said to be the reason for the rise in scrap values.

Some states in the United States have now passed a new law that will make theft of metal scrap a highly punishable offense. Meanwhile, cops are asking people to be more alert and keep their cars and bikes safe as they may be targeted by thieves for their scrap metal value.

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