Queensland Police have charged two men following an investigation into the theft of nearly 250 kilograms of copper wire from a commercial premises in Redbank Plains.
Police will allege the theft occurred following a series of incidents over nine days involving deliberate damage to security infrastructure and the forced entry of the premises.
“It is alleged about 11pm on 1 November, a masked man was captured on CCTV deliberately damaging a security camera at the Redbank Plains Road site before leaving,” Queensland Police said in a statement.
“On November 5, offenders allegedly cut through perimeter fencing before forcing entry to a door using a crowbar.
“An inspection of the premises on 9 November identified extensive damage to electrical infrastructure, with sections of main earthing cable cut and removed, along with additional cabling believed to contain copper.”
Further investigations by detectives from the Ipswich Property Crime Group revealed approximately 239 kilograms of copper wire had been stolen, with the damage resulting in power disruptions to several businesses within the premises, Police said.
Detective Inspector Mick Manago said copper wire theft had significant consequences beyond the immediate financial loss.
“These types of offences can have a substantial impact on local businesses and the wider community, particularly when damage to essential infrastructure results in power disruptions and costly repairs,” Det Insp Manago said.
“Businesses can face significant financial losses, disruption to their operations and delays while damaged infrastructure is repaired. It is not a victimless crime.”
A 42-year-old Redbank Plains man has been charged with two counts of possession of tainted property and fraud, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, possess dangerous drugs, possess property suspected of having been used in the commission of a drug offence and possess utensils. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in Ipswich Magistrates Court on 2 December.
A 46-year-old Redbank Plains man has been charged with three counts of possession of tainted property two counts of fraud and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence and possess utensils. He has been remanded in custody to appear in Ipswich Magistrates Court on 8 January.
Det Insp Manago said Police will continue to target those involved in the theft and unlawful trade of stolen copper.
“We will continue to investigate these offences, identify those responsible and ensure they are brought before the courts.”
Police are encouraging businesses and homeowners to take simple steps to reduce the risk of copper and electrical cabling theft, including:
- Secure access to electrical infrastructure, storage areas and external buildings;
- Install CCTV cameras, security lighting and alarm systems where possible;
- Regularly inspect fencing, gates and external cabling for signs of tampering;
- Keep valuable materials and spare cabling secured and out of sight;
- Report suspicious activity around commercial premises, construction sites and electrical infrastructure to police.
