Bahamas bans scrap metal exports, cites theft

The Bahamas has banned the export of scrap metal for at least three months as copper theft cases continue to increase.

The government said in a statement Wednesday that the theft is so widespread it has disrupted services at major industries.

About $35,000 worth of copper wire was recently stolen from the state power company, and another $12,000 in wire was taken from the island’s telecommunications company.

Last year, thieves stole copper wire from the Bahamas’ Broadcast Corporation and temporarily shut down its radio transmission.

Jamaica approved a similar ban earlier this week for the same reasons.

Source: The Gleaner