The theft of manhole covers is on the rise in Larnaca, the district’s sewerage board said on Thursday, adding that it will work to tackle the phenomenon which poses significant risks to drivers.

In a written statement, the council said that materials from metals such as iron and aluminium are often targeted by thieves who later sell them as scrap metals.

However, the phenomenon creates a “dangerous situation for drivers”, the council said.

Saying that safety of the public is of paramount importance, the council added that they “will exercise all legal means in cooperation with the police, to combat this phenomenon that carries significant risks”.

The Larnaca sewage council called on the public to assist efforts in tackling the thefts, by reporting any incidents at 24652075 or 97774487.