Anger at spate of religious thefts (From This Is Lancashire)

Anger at spate of religious thefts

6:30am Sunday 14th March 2010 in

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A COUNCILLOR has dubbed crooks “the lowest of the low” for carrying out a spate of religous-scroll thefts.

Police have asked Jewish residents to be vigilant after the objects, called mezuzot, were stolen from three homes in Stand Lane, Whitefield, on February 17.

Cllr Michelle Wiseman, who represents Pilkington Park ward, said: “I have never known this to happen before.

“Mezuzot are of great importance to Jewish homes and are placed in the doorway of every room in which people live.

“Anyone who steals them in this fashion is the lowest of the low.

“It is sacrilege. It is as bad as stealing a cross from a church.”

Police have notified neighbours of the thefts in a neighbourhood watch newsletter.

Officers believe the thieves could have attempted to sell the objects — which can often be antique and made of wood or tin — on the black market or melted down mezzuzot made from metal for their scrap value.

Sgt Martin Coyne, of Bury Police, said: “We are currently carrying out inquiries into these thefts.

“Our officers carry out regular patrols in this area.

“However, I would encourage local residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to the police.”

Witnesses to the thefts are asked to call police on 0161 856 8291.