Police are appealing for information after a ‘large quantity’ of copper telephone cable was stolen outside Benburb.
The theft, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday morning (May 28), has left over 700 members of the community without telephone and broadband service.
Police were alerted to the incident after alarms were activated at around 1.15am in the area of the Clonfeacle Road, between Benburb and Blackwatertown.
When officers attended the scene, they located approximately a quarter mile of cable in a nearby road.
Neighbourhood policing Inspector McNeill said: “The damage caused will cost a substantial amount of money to correct, and left over 700 members of our community without telephone and broadband service.
“We would ask anyone who may have been in the area and noticed anything suspicious, particularly those who may have dashcam or other footage, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 70 of 28/05/24.”
Inspector McNeill continued: “We would also like to remind those involved of the risks in this type of behaviour, not only to themselves but also to members of the public.
“Theft of metal or cable may lead to flooding, risk of electric shock and loss of emergency phone services.
“You can help us. If you live near an empty house, a church, a school, or communications hub, please contact the police if you see someone you don’t think should be there.”
He added: “If it’s an unusual time for contractors to be working, ask yourself – do they seem to be from a legitimate company? If any behaviour rouses your suspicions – contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.”
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