Federal Hunter MP Dan Repacholi has issued a warning over a spate of copper and cable theft affecting local communities, with thieves targeting phone and electrical infrastructure across the region.
Mr Repacholi said the thefts had left families, businesses and entire towns without access to phone, internet and power services, in some cases for weeks at a time. He said the impact was being felt most by vulnerable residents.
“They’re targeting phone and electrical infrastructure, leaving families, businesses and entire towns without phones, internet and power,” Mr Repacholi said.
“These thieves don’t care who they hurt. They don’t care about the elderly who rely on phone services, local businesses trying to operate, or families left without power.”
Mr Repacholi is encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity around power poles, utility pits, cable routes or other infrastructure. He said a single phone call could prevent further thefts and protect the community.
Suspicious activity can be reported to NSW Police on 131 444, with anonymous reports able to be made to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
