12 August 2010 10:17 Coventry copper thieves strike again at nine substations, putting lives in danger

A staggering nine substations have been broken into in Coventry, with thieves stealing vital safety equipment.

The substations, which were all carrying 11,000 volts are the latest target of copper thieves who broke in and ripped out copper earthing tape, without which thousands of customers could have been placed in danger and without power.

To make matters worse some of the substations had only recently been repaired after previous thefts.

Phil Wilson, Customer Operations Manager at Central Networks, said: "This type of vandalism which is occurring all too often will sooner or later cost someone their life - either the thieves or one of our customers.

"It amazes me that people are willing to put their lives in danger for the cost of scrap metal, which brings with it little financial reward. We keep our substations locked and fenced off for good reason and by ignoring safety warnings these vandals risk being seriously injured or even killed.

"This behaviour can cause a huge inconvenience to others who may suffer disruption through power cuts, and also impacts our business with regard to the repair."

Over recent years, the irresponsible action of thieves targeting electricity substations has led to a number of serious injuries, but luckily in all of the latest cases no one was hurt and no customers lost supply as a result.

Central Networks is working with the police who are investigating these incidents and through the charity Crimestoppers is offering a £1,000 reward for information leading to the successful prosecution and conviction of those responsible.

Individuals who wish to provide information about who is committing these crimes can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Central Networks substations affected in these incidents are located on Ivy Walk, Mary Slessor Street Wroxham Drive, Upper Ride, Pondthorpe, Laneside,and Willenhall in the Whitley area, Grange Road Longford and Delius Street Coventry;
• Central Networks, provides a reliable supply to 10 million people in central England through 133,000km of underground and overhead cables - enough to go round the Earth more than three times - and via almost 94,000 substations.
• Central Networks covers an area from the Peak District in the north to parts of Bristol in the south, and from the Welsh Borders to the Lincolnshire Coast.
• Crimestoppers is the only charity dedicated to solving crimes and taking criminals off the streets. Around 17 people are arrested and charged every day as a result of information given to Crimestoppers. One person is charged with murder every five days, as a result of information given to Crimestoppers.

For further information contact:

Victoria Blake on 02476 181304