We launch an appeal after cable theft causes phone and broadband disruption

We have launched an appeal with Openreach, the UK’s largest phone and broadband network, to get vital information after a second attempted theft of essential communications cables in the Thamesmead area of south-east London.   
 
Large sections of live cables were pulled from the underground communications network along Eastern Way, Thamesmead, SE2 9XW in the early hours of Monday 4 November 2019 at around 1am. In August this year, thieves attempted to steal communications cables causing a similar level of disruption.

 The impact leaves many hundreds of households and businesses around the Thamesmead area with no or restricted phone lines, broadband and TV services. In addition to the severe impact, these thefts have caused damage to the local environment as a result of dragging cables across local woodland.
 
Openreach engineers continue to work as quickly as possible to restore services to those residential and business customers who have been negatively affected.
 
Openreach have partnership with us to offer a reward of up to £1,000 for information on cable thefts leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. 

If you have any information on this incident, please contact us 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use our anonymous online form.
 

“These criminals appear not to care about the huge upheaval and inconvenience of having phone and broadband services cut off in the middle of the night. It not only harms the local community by preventing them from making calls or using broadband, but the disruption causes delay and disruption to local businesses.
 
“We know that someone, somewhere, will have the names of those responsible for this crime. Stealing cables used for modern communications might seem victimless, but it means people and businesses have been unable to go online for work or play, or to make important phone calls. Staying connected for the people of Thamesmead is not a nice-to-have, but a crucial feature of modern-day life.”

“This is the second attack on our network in a few months and again this has significantly impacted life in the area.
 
“Whilst we have boosted surveillance and security in the area, we are also liaising with police to ensure those behind this selfish act are found.  We are also asking local people to keep their eyes and ears open and if you hear anything suspicious, please speak up. You can report it to the police – or to stay 100% anonymous and maybe eligible for a reward of up to £1,000, please speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers.”

If you have any information on this incident, please contact us on 0800 555 111 or through our online form 100% anonymously. Always.