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Metal Theft

Metal theft is becoming a serious issue in Northern Ireland. Organised gangs and opportunists are stealing metals that are important for our communities. In the last 12 months, at NIE Networks we have seen almost one incident a week where our equipment has been damaged or stolen by metal thieves.

They are stripping electricity substations, schools, playgrounds and churches and stealing live electricity cables and equipment, manholes and other important elements of our infrastructure from all parts of Northern Ireland.

This crime is damaging our economy, infrastructure and heritage. The cost of compensation, replacement and prevention impacts on prices, increases tax and pushes up your insurance premiums.

Metal theft is also extremely dangerous to you, your family and your community. Theft of manhole covers, cables used for 999 calls and live electricity wiring puts everyone at risk. 

The Risks

  • Vandals who enter substations are at risk of electrocution
  • Electrical cable theft can cause power cuts in local areas
  • Uncovered manholes present a serious risk to cyclists, motorists and pedestrians
  • Telephone cable theft can cause loss of broadband, phone lines and access to 999
  • Theft of water tanks from vacant properties leave flooded buildings open and a danger to children

What You Can Do

We have teamed up with Crimestoppers and other utility companies to help raise awareness of this serious issue.

If you are aware of metal theft or vandalism of electricity equipment in your local area, please contact us or:

  1. Call crimestoppers immediately on 0800 555 111 if you see or are aware of anyone involved in metal theft.
  2. Download the official Crimestoppers booklet & poster for distribution in your community.
  3.  Visit the Crimestoppers website for more information on what you can do to help.