A Dundee charity has described a series of break-ins to its premises as an “absolute nightmare,” but vowed to carry on its social and environmental work for the city.
Police are investigating the most recent crime at Tayside Recyclers’ South Dudhope Mill premises, which took place on Monday night.
Computer equipment worth around £180 was stolen, while the criminals also caused damage to the building which could cost £500 to repair.
Manager Joe Lamen said, “It’s an absolute nightmare.
“We’ve had this ongoing problem with probably seven or eight break-ins over the past three years.”
He added, “But we have to keep going there’s a great need for what we do and there aren’t enough people out there doing it.”
The charity was initially formed with the environmental goal of minimising the amount of furniture going into landfill or being incinerated.
However, it has taken on a broader social role, helping people on low incomes acquire furniture and other items for setting up home.
The most recent crime involved the theft of three computer systems, which had been refurbished and put on sale for students or others who couldn’t otherwise afford such equipment.
Mr Lamen said, “They were probably looking for cash, but we don’t keep cash on the premises, so when they didn’t find any they took the computers instead.”
The thieves’ entry to the building caused damage to the roof, which the charity estimates will cost between £300 and £500 to put right.
Mr Lamen said, “It leaves you wondering who would do that.
“What I would like to see is the people responsible being caught, and the courts making an example of them.”
Police are appealing for witnesses to the latest break-in at the Douglas Street building, which is believed to have taken place around 11.25pm on Monday.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Tayside Police on 0300 111 2222 or speak to any officer.