Numerous grates have vanished from the 1100 block of Merrick Street, the 1000 block of Ramseur Street, Grant Street, Umstead Street and Riddle Road, police said. New storm grates that were installed to replace the stolen ones on Merrick Street have also been taken.

Such thefts have become increasingly common because of worldwide demand for scrap metal.

Anyone with information on the thefts is asked to call Investigator A.M. Sterling at 560-4415, ext. 233.

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