A recent Bauwatch report reveals a significant increase in theft from construction sites across the Netherlands over the past year. Copper was the most frequently stolen material, followed closely by steel, driven by soaring commodity prices. These thefts are causing substantial disruptions, with one reported incident halting construction for an estimated four to five weeks. Bauwatch attributes the rise in crime to the increasing value of raw materials, making construction sites attractive targets for thieves. The report highlights a growing concern for the construction industry, facing project delays and financial losses due to these criminal activities. Authorities are urging increased security measures to protect building materials and minimize further disruptions. The trend indicates a direct correlation between market prices and opportunistic crime on construction sites.