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Thamesmead: Repeated attacks on vital local broadband cables prompt appeal
We are working with Openreach, the UK’s largest phone and broadband network, after another attack on vital communications infrastructure in south east London.
It follows a series of cable thefts over the last three weeks in Thamesmead SE28 when a large section of live cable was pulled from the underground communications network at the junction of Crossways and Glendale Way. The theft occurred between 11pm on Sunday 2 August and 3am on Monday 3 August 2020.
The damage has left hundreds of residential and business customers in Thamesmead without use of their phone lines, broadband and TV services. Openreach engineers are working as quickly as possible to restore services to those customers affected. As with earlier thefts, significant damage has also been caused to the nearby public green spaces after cables were dragged across parkland.
If you have any information about this incident, please speak to one of our trained UK Contact Centre staff by calling freephone 0800 555 111 or fill in our simple and secure anonymous online form.
The damage has left hundreds of residential and business customers in Thamesmead without use of their phone lines, broadband and TV services. Openreach engineers are working as quickly as possible to restore services to those customers affected. As with earlier thefts, significant damage has also been caused to the nearby public green spaces after cables were dragged across parkland.
Openreach has a partnership with our charity that offers 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 by calling freephone 0800 555 111 or by filling in our simple and secure Anonymous Online Form.
“It’s unbelievable callous that people would steal vital communications cables knowing that communities, already stressed during the isolation of a global pandemic, will suffer.
“It might appear that no one is harmed or that this is a victimless crime, but the impact on communities is significant. Cable theft disrupts essential broadband services and can even impact on local emergency and vital public services. Those involved care little for the consequences of their actions, which is why we are asking anyone with information on those responsible to speak up now.
“If you are unable to speak directly to the police, then our charity is here for you. We can take your information anonymously via our UK Contact Centre. Just fill in our simple and secure online form or speak to one of our trained staff by calling freephone 0800 555 111. You’ll stay 100% anonymous. Always
“For over 32 years, Crimestoppers has always kept its promise of anonymity to everyone who tells us what they know. Thousands of people trust us every day and your information could make all the difference in helping keep our communities safe from harm during this difficult time.”
“These incidents have really affected the local community especially in a period when people are still being encouraged to maintain social distancing where they can. Not having access to broadband and telephone services will seriously affect the ability to do things online, as well as stay in touch and check in on loved ones.
“We are working very closely with police to catch those who are responsible and have deployed additional security enhancements across the area, but we also need your help. Please be vigilant and if you saw anything suspicious on or around the time of the incidents, report it. If you prefer not to speak directly to police, then please contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously.”
If you have any information about this incident, please speak to one of our trained UK Contact Centre staff by calling freephone 0800 555 111 or fill in our simple and secure anonymous online form.
