Two arrested after nine-day copper wire theft at Redbank Plains shopping centre
Police arrested two men for stealing 239 kilograms of copper wire over nine days at Town Square Redbank Plains.
Two men aged 42 and 46 from Redbank Plains were arrested after stealing copper wiring from the shopping centre over nine days. Police say a masked man damaged security cameras on November 1.
On November 5, offenders cut the perimeter fence and forced a door open with a crowbar. By November 9, inspectors found major damage to the electrical system.
The main earthing cable was cut. The 46-year-old tried to hide in a clothes closet when arrested.
Detective Inspector Mick Manago said the theft was coordinated. He suggested other people may have been involved.
The stolen copper made most shops lose power. Businesses had to close.
Food went bad.
- 239 kilograms
- Copper wire stolen
- 9 days
- Duration of theft
- 2, ages 42 and 46
- Men arrested
- Mick Manago
- Detective
Why it mattersCopper theft costs businesses far more than the metal is worth. Repair costs and trading losses add up quickly when essential infrastructure is damaged.
AustraliaPolice are appealing for witnesses in Ipswich who saw suspicious vehicles during the theft period.
