Police have renewed calls for information after several copper-theft incidents were reported across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Valley.
In June and July 2023, several incidents of copper theft were reported to police districts around the region. Notable incidents include:
- On Friday 9 June 2023, copper earth tails were stolen from more than 50 power poles along the Golden Highway near Merriwa.
- Between Wednesday 5 July 2023 and Thursday 20 July 2023, copper cables were stolen from a site near Wybong Road, Muswellbrook.
- On Friday 7 July 2023, copper cables were stolen from a site near George Booth Drive, Cameron Park.
- On Saturday 8 July 2023, electrical wires were stolen near Regents Drive, New Lambton.
- On Wednesday 19 July 2023, an attempted theft occurred on electrical wires at Tomalpin, near Cessnock.
- On Monday 31 July 2023, copper cables were stolen from a site on Thomas Mitchell Drive, Muswellbrook.
Detectives are also investigating reports of similar thefts believed to have occurred at Morisset and Awaba.
Investigators continue to pursue lines of inquiry surrounding the theft of copper and urge anyone with information to come forward.
The incidents have also prompted safety warnings from Ausgrid's EGM of Field Operations, Sam Sofi, who said people are putting their lives at risk by interfering with live electrical assets.
"Copper theft is a serious public safety issue. Not only do the perpetrators put their own lives at risk, they also endanger the community by leaving powerlines exposed," Mr Sofi said.
"Contact with powerlines can kill you. There are no second chances with electricity and no amount of copper is worth a life."
If you see fallen powerlines always assume they are live, stay at least eight metres back and call Ausgrid on 13 13 88.
Anyone with information about copper theft is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
