Neubrandenburg/Penkun (dpa/mv) - After a series of manhole cover thefts in the south-east of Mecklenburg and in Western Pomerania, the suspect admitted the crimes - and is free again. As a police spokeswoman said on Monday, it is the 34-year-old who was caught near Neubrandenburg on Friday. Ten heavy, cast-iron rainwater outlets that had been removed from roads had been discovered in his transporter. The man is being investigated for theft and dangerous intervention in road traffic.
The man also stated that he had previously stolen around 40 other manhole covers in regions south of Neubrandenburg and near Strasburg, Pasewalk and Penkun (Western Pomerania-Greifswald). He gave money as a motive. Parts of the loot were sold at metal dealers. Since the native Pole stated permanent residence in Poland and Berlin, no arrest warrant was requested.
After the first thefts a week ago, the police published descriptions of the man and his unusual vehicle. Witnesses only recognized the suspect on Friday near Pasewalk and later near Neubrandenburg. He was caught with the help of a helicopter. The total damage from the thefts, which endangered vehicle drivers because of the roadblocks, is estimated at several thousand euros.
