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��ѿ��ý Essex has learned of the rise of cast -iron manhole and drain covers being stolen across Basildon. 'The Great Drain Robbery' has seen at least 25 taken in the district in January alone - and 45 were taken across Essex in the same month. It's comes as the price of scrap metal has rocketed. Paul Benton, who is a taxi driver for Pitsea, and Aaron Russell who lives in Craylands in Basildon have both complained that a load have been taken near where they live. They've been telling ��ѿ��ý Essex what they've seen. Essex County Council said in a statement: "We can confirm that 25 drain and gully covers were missing in the Basildon district in January." A spokesperson for Essex Highways said: “Removing drain covers from their rightful location creates a potentially dangerous hazard for pedestrians and road users alike. There are other implications, as missing covers then have to be replaced by Essex Highways, at a cost to the taxpayer. “A missing drain cover is considered as a high-risk problem as it can be a serious danger to the public. When we are informed of a missing cover, we need to make it safe urgently using a cone or plastic grid sheet. This make safe will remain over the drain until a permanent fix can be organised. Replacing missing covers is treated as a priority job. “If you notice a missing drain cover in your area please report it to us online as soon as possible using our Tell Us tool at https://www.essexhighways.org/tell-us. If residents see or hear about suspicious activity with drain covers, we would also urge them to contact Essex Police on 101.”