The township Police Department is seeking the public’s help in solving a rash of copper thefts in the Somerset section of town, according to a press release.

More than a dozen cases of stolen coper tubing from air conditioning units have been reported, according to the release. The release does not say where these thefts occurred, other than in “commercial properties” in Somerset.

The thefts occur mainly in the overnight and weekend hours, when the businesses are closed, according to the release.

The thefts are accomplished by cutting the tubing between the business and the AC unit’s condenser, according to the release.

“If you see suspicious people or vehicles, especially in commercial areas after hours call the police (9-1-1) immediately,” Chief Lawrence Roberts said in the release. “The assistance of the community is essential in solving crimes such as these.”

Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to call Det. Ordel Taylor of the Franklin Township Police Department’s Detective Bureau at (732) 873-5533 extension 3149.