PM: Scrap iron has become organised crime

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has accused elements of the scrap iron industry of engaging in organised crime, declaring yesterday that operators must clean up their act and stop stealing from the State, businesses and ordinary citizens.

Responding to complaints from scrap iron dealers that thousands of workers have been thrown on the breadline following another closure of the industry, Persad-Bissessar said scrap iron collectors had brought the situation upon themselves through their continued involvement in criminal activities.

“The reality is that scrap iron has become organised crime. Every one knows it. The organisation must clean up their industry because this thieving cannot continue,” she said.