Information sought in relation to copper thefts

ACT Policing is seeking the public’s assistance following instances of copper theft from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) facility adjacent to the Barton Highway.

In two recent incidents at the CSIRO facility (located between Nicholls and Evatt/McKellar) that are believed to have occurred within the last month, the offenders cut live power lines down to obtain copper from them.

In both cases, live electrical wires were left exposed on the ground.

This follows multiple incidents of copper thefts this year, resulting in extensive damage to Commonwealth heritage listed buildings in Lawson.

In incidents between January 2024 to April 2024, a man caused significant damage to a property in Lawson in the process of obtaining the copper.

A 53-year-old Curtin man was charged with multiple offences including five counts of trespassing on prohibited Commonwealth land, four counts of damaging heritage in reserve, four counts of theft, and burglary. He faced the ACT Magistrates Court in May 2024.

In a separate incident in May, police responded to reports of several people unlawfully entering another building in the same facility in Lawson.

Police attended and located two men within the building, with a third man located a short time later hiding within the building.

A fourth man is alleged to have fled the scene in a white Holden ute, despite police directing him to stop. He was later arrested at his residence in Spence.

Four people have been charged in relation to this incident with various offences including aggravated burglary, trespass on prohibited Commonwealth land, theft, damaging Commonwealth property, and failing to stop for police.

Inspector Nigel Booth from Gungahlin Police Station said that these outcomes should serve as a warning to the community as to the repercussions of this crime.

“This is an example of the consequences you can expect to face if you engage in this type of behaviour and damage Commonwealth property,” Inspector Booth said.

“The theft of copper in these instances caused significant damage to heritage listed property, and irreversible damage to the value and history of the buildings.

“We are continuing to investigate the incidents at the CSIRO facility, and urge anyone with information in relation to the identity of these offenders to come forward.

“Concerningly, people have left live wires exposed. These actions are very dangerous as there is enough power in the lines to be fatal if touched.

“Our message to anyone thinking of stealing copper is simple - don't. We have a number of methods allowing us to disrupt this offending, and to identify and track down those involved.”

Anyone with information in relation to the incidents at the CSIRO facility adjacent to the Barton Highway is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Please quote reference number 7802133. Information can be provided anonymously.