Police are warning homes could be left without gas as metal is allegedly being stolen from a gas pipe.

The pipe, which provides gas to the town of Port Talbot and the nearby Neath Valley, is “vital” to ensure homes can be heated, police say.

Officers say damage to the pipeline “must be avoided at all costs to keep the gas flowing safely to local homes and businesses”.

South Wales Police has warned local homes and businesses would be without gas “for a considerable period of time” if the pipeline is not in working order.

“Theft of metal from any gas pipeline poses significant risk to life as damage to pipes can cause gas leaks or explosions,” a force spokesperson said.

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Sergeant Jules Simpson, from the neighbourhood policing team, said they “strongly discourage people from putting themselves at great risk by stealing metal from live gas pipes”.

“Not only are you breaking the law, you are risking serious harm or even death. We will identify and swiftly arrest those involved with the theft of these materials.”

Police are asking anyone with information that could help with their investigation to contact them.

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