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Castlegar - Cops collar copper crooks

Police arrested three men caught stealing copper wire from Martech Electrical Systems in Castlegar Sunday.

Police arrested three men caught stealing copper wire from Martech Electrical Systems in Castlegar Sunday.

Castlegar RCMP were already keeping a watchful eye on the property after two separate incidents where copper wire was stolen from the grounds.

Video surveillance taken of the two break and enters led to the arrest of the three men – 26, 37 and 43 years old ­– from the Penticton/Summerland area, who are now facing charges of theft over $5,000.

“A West Kootenay Traffic officer was working in Castlegar and he noted a truck parked in Castlegar that looked similar to the vehicle in the surveillance footage from the Martech break-ins,” said Sgt. Laurel Matthew in a news release.

“Upon entering and searching the property at Martech, officers came face to face with two adult males who appeared to be in the process of stealing copper wire,” said Matthew. “These two males were taken into custody, as well as the driver of the truck.”

who police believe was the mode of transport and third person involved in this crime.”

The men were held in custody until Tuesday, when they appeared in court.

Additional charges for carrying a concealed weapon and possession of drugs are also being pursued against the 26-year-old man.

The “complex” investigation continues.