Wyndham warns of ‘significant disruptions’ to facilities following thefts

A spate of cable thefts in Wyndham, including $10,000 worth of copper, is disrupting council’s services and costing ratepayers thousands.

Wyndham detectives are investigating a $10,000 copper theft on November 14, 2021.

A spate of cable thefts in Wyndham, including $10,000 worth of copper, is disrupting services and costing ratepayers thousands, council has warned.

Police say a caucasian man with a “solid build” was captured on CCTV damaging a security camera at a building site on Apex Drive in Truganina about 6pm on Sunday, November 14.

Brandishing a long metal stake during the thefts, he allegedly stole an estimated $10,000 of copper wiring.

“He was wearing a black hooded jumper, black tracksuit pants and black gumboots,” a Victoria Police spokesman said.

“Anyone who recognises the man or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.”

The incident comes as Wyndham City warned a spike in cable thefts from council facilities is causing “significant disruption” to the community and costing ratepayers thousands.

“We are concerned to see that the trend of theft of underground power cables has increased over the past three years — and is continuing to do so,” mayor Peter Maynard said.

“In stealing from council, they are stealing from Wyndham residents. We are asking our residents to please watch out for any suspicious activity at our sporting fields or facilities.”

Cr Maynard asked residents to contact council if they see anyone doing electrical work at local sporting grounds and community facilities to confirm if it’s “legitimate work”.

Crime Stoppers can be reached on 1800 333 000 or confidential reports can be made online at www.crimestoppervic.com.au