Two suspected cable thiefs were arrested last Friday after an exhaustive police search around Caddington.
The search began at 11.30am after intruders were spotted cutting up the metal cable at an aerial station on Dunstable Road and an emergency call was made to police.
A police containment was placed around the scene while officers, including a police dog handler, searched the area. A strong scent was picked up by the dog which led to a wooded copse and towards a local golf course.
Using local knowledge two officers placed themselves in Folly Lane where they expected the track to emerge. Within minutes of arriving two men matching the description of the offenders were spotted along the lane and arrested.
Speaking after hearing of the arrests, Superintendent David Boyle, said: “This was an excellent example of communication and teamwork by numerous officers which led to the immediate arrest of two suspected offenders for a serious acquisitive crime.”
He added: “Often people do not understand that this type of crime is serious but these offences do have a negative impact on local communities and the businesses involved. The cost implication to the company owning the aerial will also have a detrimental impact and may run into thousands of pounds.”
Both men were taken to Luton Police Station for questioning and released on police bail pending further investigation.
If you have information about this offence you can contact the officer in charge of this investigation, DC Stephen Francis, at Luton Police Station on 01582 394362, or Bedfordshire Police on 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively you can contact the independent crime fighting charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.