Toilet pipe bandits flush with success in Albuquerque

(CBS/AP) ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Metal thieves in Albuquerque are flush with success in a series of toilet pipe heists from public restrooms. Police say bandits are hitting up city restrooms and making off with pipes that automatically flush toilets.

KOB-TV reports that Albuquerque police commander Will Roseman says authorities have seen a rash of thefts involving Flush-O-Matics.

Police believe the thieves' m.o. is to pose as plumbers. According to authorities, the pipes sell for around $30 on the black market but cost businesses about $400 to replace.

A police report says at least one Albuquerque-area recycling plant has been buying the stolen pipes.