An Investigation into Precious Metal Theft
A shocking string of events rocked operations at two prominent refineries in Europe. In Germany, worker fatalities and a theft inquiry were reported at an Aurubis’ center in Hamburg. In Sweden, a devastating fire caused production to cease at Boliden’s Rönnskär smelter in Skelleftehamn.
At Aurubis’ Hamburg, Germany factory, an inquiry was initiated to discover a theft ring that had a focus on precious metal-bearing intermediate products. As a result of the investigation, several employees were let go and third-party contractors were barred as well.
It has been discovered that Aurubis may have faced criminal activities in the past, and law enforcement forces in Hamburg are conducting a thorough probe into particular current and former Aurubis workers, as well as third-party personnel operating at the facility. This news was announced in an official press release.
“No accusations have been directed against Aurubis,” the press release stated. “The company has given the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the police its full support for several years, and welcomes the extensive investigations aimed at identifying those behind these crimes.”
Arrests Have Been Initiated
The extent of the damage is still yet to be determined; however, arrests have already been made. According to a press release from the Public Prosecutor’s Office, warrants totaling over 20 million euros (around $22 million) have been issued for those in custody. It remains unclear what the ultimate cost will be.
“According to current findings, Aurubis can rule out any harm to suppliers or customers,” the press release added. Additionally, preparations are being made for the construction of a new smelter in Georgia that is expected to process 180,000 tons of material annually.
According to Heiko Arnold, chief operating officer of custom smelting and products at Aurubis, the business is vulnerable to illegal activities as it deals with valuable metals. As he remarked in the press release, “we are fundamentally at risk of becoming the focus of criminal activity.”
“We therefore have the high prevention and security standards in place,” Arnold said. “Nevertheless, we have taken this incident as an opportunity to thoroughly analyze and revise these standards once again.”
Multiple Deaths at Aurubis
Recent events at an Aurubis smelter in Hamburg, Germany have sparked an investigation into the recent theft. Tragically, on May 11th, three employees were killed by a nitrogen leak while performing routine maintenance at approximately 2:30 a.m. on its eastern smelter plant, which is a key component of the facility’s operations.
After the incident occurred, the employees were rushed to the hospital. Sadly, two passed away on the same day while the third passed away shortly after.
Aurubis has announced that they are collaborating with the police to determine the root cause of the incident. A press statement made it clear that details will be disclosed when all parties have finished the investigation.
Roland Harings, CEO of Aurubis, expressed his sympathy in a press release. He stated that, “our hearts go out to their loved ones and everyone else affected.”
“We want to express our deepest sympathy,” Harings said. “There will be an internal memorial service for the deceased employees.”
A month after the initial incident, on June 13th, another copper smelter experienced a destructive event. This time it was Boliden’s Rönnskär facility in Skelleftehamn, Sweden that had suffered a fire. The press reported “The extent of the fire was significant, but at present limited to the cell house.”
An alarming statement came from officials, announcing that the entire cell house had been engulfed by flames. Reports also indicated that “it is currently not possible to assess the extent of the damage that has occurred,” but there were no reports of any injuries.
