Hull ISP KC Calls for People to Help Stop Copper Cable and Metal Theft

The incumbent phone and broadband provider for Hull and East Yorkshire in England (UK), KC (Karoo), has joined in a local partnership with Humberside Police, Hull City Council, BT and local scrap metal merchants. The group has specifically called on members of the public to help them stop metal thieves.

The operator warned today that metal theft, fuelled by the high price of copper and other metals, was on the rise and increasingly likely to result in disruption to the local transport system (train delays), power cuts and phone and broadband service problems.

Some 1,600 homes and businesses in Tickton and Thorngumbald had their telecoms services cut earlier this year after thieves stole underground copper cables from BT and KC. Last year also saw thieves steal floodlight cable from the Hull KR Super League grounds at Craven Park.

Sgt Julian Hart, Humberside Police, said:

“Metal theft isn’t a victimless crime. It causes damage to properties and disruption to vital services. Members of the community have an important part to play in tackling metal theft too, by reporting any suspicious behaviour, which might include someone pushing a wheelie bin or barrow filled with metal, or witnessing people in unmarked vehicles and clothing working in manholes or on roofs. All reports are taken seriously and welcomed by the police and partner agencies.”

Locals are advised that to report a crime in progress, call the police on emergency number 999. To report suspicious behaviour or give general information on metal theft, processing or handling, call the Humberside Police on 101 (works for every region of the UK) or Crimestoppers confidentially and anonymously on 0800 555 111. You can also go to any police station to report a crime or give information.