ScottishPower Energy Networks is offering £5,000 for information that leads to the conviction of criminals involved in stealing copper from electricity substations in Hawthorn Road and Broom Drive, Galashiels, last Thursday (22nd May). Engineers have responded to a number of faults reported by customers in these areas since the thefts took place, and repairs are being carried out to the electricity network.
Initially engineers were called to the area to investigate electricity supply problems, and found that two substations in the area had been broken in to, with the theft of vital cables. As well as causing supply faults for a small number of properties in the area, the thefts have caused significant damage to ScottishPower’s network of underground cables in the area. Although no properties are without supplies, ScottishPower engineers have since been working continually in the area to complete repairs, resulting in significant excavation and testing. The company hopes to complete repair works over the weekend, reinstating all excavations by the start of next week.
Guy Jefferson, Network Operations Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “The recent thefts in Galashiels are very concerning. The criminals have left the substations damaged and unsecured – exposing residents to potentially very dangerous situations. The thefts have also have caused supply issues for local homes, and it is clear that the criminals do not care at all about the safety of the public.
“Our engineers believe that the criminals are very lucky to be alive, but they have caused a significant amount of damage. It beggars belief that anyone could be so reckless, 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 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.
ScottishPower Press Office / 0141 614 4660 / 07702 665 924