From Gironde to Sarthe, the four corners of France are affected by the theft of gutters, particularly from religious buildings. The precious loot is then resold for its copper at a high price.
A scourge for municipalities which have a hefty bill in order to repair the damage. The latest gutter theft took place in Montval-sur-Loir, in Sart he, the inhabitants of the town have never seen a theft of this scale. The thieves "are dressed in yellow or orange vests and construction helmets, posing as professionals sent by town halls"