A man has been charged over the alleged theft of copper wire in the Noosa hinterland and elsewhere in south-east Queensland.
Detectives from Gympie Criminal Investigation Branch and Child Protection Investigation Unit investigated multiple reports of theft or damage to copper cabling in Gympie, the Sunshine Coast, Indooroopilly and surrounding areas between June to November.
A man was interrupted while allegedly stealing copper cable from a telecommunications pit at Tablelands Road, Cooran, early on Sunday, November 10.
Following complex investigations, detectives executed a search warrant at a property at Pie Creek, about 7km south-west of Gympie, on November 11.
Police found and seized about 30kg of copper wiring, damaged insulation, and drug paraphernalia during the search.
A 46-year-old Jones Hill man was arrested at the property and has since been charged with 12 counts of wilful damage, nine counts of stealing and one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, evasion offence at night, possess utensils or pipes that had been used, and failing to take reasonable care and precautions in respect of syringe or needle.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear in Gympie Magistrates Court on December 9.
Wide Bay Burnett district Detective Acting Inspector Melonie Geck said property offenders would be caught and dealt with.
“This was an extensive investigation that dealt with more than 18 complaints of copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland,” Det Insp Geck said.
“Despite creative attempts to steal property, detectives continue to identify, locate and deal with offenders.”
Anyone with information or who has experienced similar incidents is urged to contact police.
