Following a spate of dangerous thefts and attempted thefts from electricity substations in the Saltcoats and Ardrossan areas over the weekend, ScottishPower is offering a reward of £5,000 to anyone who can provide information that leads to the conviction of any of the criminals involved.

On Saturday (1st June) alone, the company identified several substations in the area where illegal access had been taken. In some cases equipment had been badly damaged, and the substations were left open, posing a danger to nearby residents. Prompt action by Engineers meant the number of properties suffering a loss of power supplies was kept to hundreds rather than the thousands who are served by these local substations.

ScottishPower is now working closely with the Police to follow a number of leads, but are very concerned that it may only be a matter of time before a member of the public is injured.

Guy Jefferson, Operations Director at ScottishPower Energy Networks, said: “The events in Saltcoats and Ardossan over the weekend are deeply concerning. The criminals responsible for the thefts are leaving substations badly damaged and unsecured – exposing residents to potentially very dangerous situations. The damage could also have resulted in widespread power loss, or in the worst case, it could have caused damage to electrical appliances in residents’ homes. It is clear that the criminals do not care about the safety of the public.

“The frequency of the thefts also shows a real desperation in their actions. In fact, it is only by sheer luck that the criminals themselves have not been badly injured or even killed. One wrong move in the vicinity of 11,000 volts of electricity will result in horrific injuries.

“It is incredible that anyone would risk life and limb for the sake of stealing small amounts of scrap metal that will have a minimal sell-on value. It beggars belief that anyone could be so thoughtless, and we will be working closely with Police to help ensure that the criminals responsible are caught.”

ScottishPower is encouraging anyone who can provide information on the break-ins to either contact the Police, or to call the company’s 24 hour security hotline on 0800 027 1950. The company is willing to pay £5,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the conviction of any of those responsible.

Media Information: ScottishPower Press Office, 0141 614 4660