So I got it on both counts? I do get lucky sometimes. I was wondering about it being an identifier because sometime in the future it might be legitimately scrapped. I suppose the scrapper could then produce some document showing a legitimate source though such as a contract to demolish an old building.
The copper thievery is so out of control this is most likely a stopgap measure. I have even stopped copper thieves that have made makeshift grappeling hooks to rip copper guttering down.