THE BAHAMAS has banned the export of scrap metal for at least three months as copper theft cases continue to increase.

The government said in a statement Wednesday that the theft is so widespread it has disrupted services at major industries.

About $35,000 worth of copper wire was recently stolen from the state power company, and another $12,000 in wire was taken from the island’s telecommunications company.

Last year, thieves stole copper wire from the Bahamas’ Broadcast Corporation and temporarily shut down its radio transmission.

Jamaica approved a similar ban earlier this week for the same reasons.