Thousands of Pounds of Copper Stolen in Coordinated Operation
Authorities have uncovered a significant copper cable theft in Surrey, where thieves removed more than one kilometer of electrical infrastructure weighing over 8,000 pounds. The incident was discovered on December 24 after a driver reported an exposed maintenance hole cover on 64th Avenue.
Details of the Theft
Investigators found evidence of copper cable cutting across 14 maintenance access points, with complete removal occurring at three locations along 64th Avenue between 159th and 162nd Streets. Approximately 1,300 meters of specialized wiring disappeared in what appears to be a coordinated operation.
With copper trading above $8 per pound at the time of discovery, the stolen materials carry an estimated street value exceeding $64,000.
Theft Spree Follows Utility Warning
This incident occurred just 13 days after officials issued a public warning about the dramatic increase in copper thefts. Security reports indicate a 300% surge in such incidents across British Columbia during the preceding 18-month period.
Dangers of Copper Theft
Utility experts emphasize that copper theft poses deadly risks comparable to tampering with live power lines. Susie Rieder, a safety representative, stated: “Copper theft isn’t just property damage – open maintenance holes and exposed wiring create catastrophic injury risks. Public vigilance is crucial to prevent tragedies.”
Investigators believe thieves used vehicles equipped with winches to extract the heavy cabling over several weeks between October and December. Similar methods have been reported in approximately 22 comparable cases across the province since last April.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
While the stolen neutral wiring doesn’t typically cause power outages, officials warn of multiple hazards created by these thefts:
- Unsecured maintenance holes creating fall risks
- Exposed electrical components posing shock dangers
- Safety threats to repair crews working in compromised environments
Public Safety Recommendations
Officials urge residents to immediately report:
- Open or disturbed maintenance hole covers
- Unauthorized individuals working on electrical infrastructure
- Downed power lines or damaged equipment
“Always assume electrical equipment is energized,” warned safety officials. “Maintain a distance of at least 10 meters – equivalent to a standard bus length – and contact emergency services immediately if you encounter dangerous infrastructure.”
Suspicious activity can be reported to local authorities at 911 or through the utility’s security hotline at 1-877-311-8611.
