Police launch crackdown on copper cable thefts

Police have launched an operation aimed at tackling a rise in copper cable thefts which have disrupted phone and broadband services in parts of Rutland.

The initiative, known as Operation Hierophant, will see increased patrols, vehicle checks and intelligence-led activity targeting offenders involved in stealing telecommunications cabling.

The operation brings together Leicestershire Police, specialist intelligence teams and broadband network provider Openreach.

Insp Rowan Paterson-Bell said the thefts had a significant impact on communities.

"These offences are not simply thefts of scrap metal," he said.

"The targeting of telecommunications infrastructure can have a significant impact on local communities, businesses and vulnerable residents by disrupting broadband and communication services."

Police said a number of incidents had been reported in and around North Luffenham during July, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The village experienced a series of cable thefts in recent weeks, with offenders returning to areas that had previously been targeted.

The area was also affected by a major incident last year when almost a mile of copper cable was stolen, leaving hundreds of homes without phone and broadband services.

Officers believe the offences may be linked to a wider pattern of organised criminal activity affecting several counties across the region.

Officers are urging people to report suspicious behaviour, particularly around telecommunications infrastructure.

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