Calgary Police Chief Rick Hanson says investigators are going after people who buy stolen copper wire as well as people who steal it.

It is estimated theft of copper wire and other metals for scrap costs Calgary businesses millions of dollars every year.

"We're cranking up the heat," said Hanson on Wednesday.

He says thieves would not be able to sell the wire if people did not buy the stolen material and create a market for it.

Calgary police have set up an investigative unit dedicated to copper wire thefts.

"The message today is that we will go hard after those that continue to buy it. We're covering all the bases on this one," said Hanson.

He warned scrap dealers who buy the material, they can face serious charges.