The increase in metal being stolen from properties in Enniskillen has lead to a concerted campaign to help target the costly theft.

Police, Northern Ireland Housing Executive and members of the business community are joining forces to help combat the problem.

Constable Hazel Gray, the police crime prevention officer in Fermanagh, explained: "Over recent months, properties in the Cornagrade area of Enniskillen have suffered a concerted campaign of theft of lead from porches and roofs, and this has resulted in many properties having to have lead replaced and has caused distress to tenants, business people and home owners alike. Many properties have been targeted repeatedly, which makes it an even more stressful experience.

"With the price of lead at an all-time high, criminals have targeted properties and stolen lead, which has then been sold on to dealers. Much of the stolen scrap metal is exported to China, where it is eagerly sought," the Constable explained.

And the problem is not unique to Enniskillen. There have also been a number of thefts of lead from building sites around Fermanagh in recent months. Across the UK, the problem has also become significant, and extra precautions have been taken on more properties to protect them.

Constable Gray explained that much of the lead that had been replaced was now marked with a unique invisible forensic system and can be traced back to where it was stolen: "It will link anyone found with pieces of lead to the scene of the theft. There is a 100% conviction rate when this forensic system has been used in the recent past in other parts of the UK", he added.

And, anyone dealing in scrap metal may also be implicated in handling stolen goods should forensically-coded metal turn up at their business premises. Details of how to check for marked metal have been forwarded to scrap dealers.

Scrap metal dealers have also been reminded of their obligation to obtain a Waste Management Licence from the Environment and Heritage Service under Waste Management Legislation as required by law in order to carry out this type of business.

Constable Gray emphasised there was a lot the public can achieve by exercising vigilance and reporting people or vehicles, acting suspiciously.

She added: "If, for example, persons are observed on roofs or tampering with the fabric of a building, then it is likely that they are involved in criminal activity. Should such suspicious activity be observed, then police would ask for residents to contact their Police Neighbourhood Beat Officer by calling 0845 600 8000 or `999` if the crime is in progress. Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111. Any information leading to an arrest or charge may qualify for an award, which is paid out anonymously."