POLICE HUNT MAN OVER INK THEFTS

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Police hunt man over ink thefts
(AUSTRALIA) man posing as an employee of Planet Ark has been stealing thousands of dollars worth of printer cartridges from North Sydney businesses.The thefts are part of a “widespread problem”, according to the recycling group.North Sydney police said a man has been entering businesses stating he is from Planet Ark and there to collect the empty printer cartridges for recycling.Once inside, he gathers new printer cartridges, sometimes even using a trolley to carry them outside.The man is responsible for one foiled theft attempt in Chatswood and at least four thefts over the past few weeks at Crows Nest, St Leonards and North Sydney. It is understood North Sydney’s Optus building was one of the targeted businesses.The man is described as 20 to 30 years old, dark skin, possibly Asian or Pacific Islander appearance and about 168cm tall. Harbourside crime manager Detective Inspector Peter Houlahan said the high cost of toners meant there was “probably a reasonable market for them”.He said an incidence response team was examining CCTV footage, which was publicly released on Monday.Planet Ark recycling manager Daniela Santucci said repeat offences had become “quite damaging to the Planet Ark name”.Ms Santucci is asking for businesses registered with the “Cartridges 4 Planet Ark” program to inform all staff when a courier is expected to collect used printer cartridges.Any queries can be directed to the Planet Ark hotline on 1800 24 24 73(IN AUSTRALIA)

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May 25, 2007 at 1:59 PM