Gardaí and ESB Networks have issues a joint statement following a spate of incidents which have resulted in live copper overhead lines being stolen.

The criminals, they added, are also stealing copper earthing conductor from High Voltage substations.

In a statement, Garda said that the criminals are not only putting their lives at risk, but also endangering the lives of other members of the public by "leaving potentially unsafe live electrical network after them and interrupting supply to critical services."

The thefts, which have been happening across Ireland, can result in the loss of electricity supply to customers in the areas targeted by thieves. It also causes inconvenience caused to local residents while repair works are carried out by ESB Network crews. As a result, this impacts on domestic and commercial customers, and ESB Networks has said it is "particularly concerned" that the theft of live electrical equipment can have a severe impact on vulnerable customers.

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ESB Networks is working with An Garda Siochana to tackle the illegal activity, and are taking steps to protect the electricity network.

Garda have appealed particularly to the rural and farming communities whose land may be being trespassed upon and damaged by those behind the thefts. Anyone who notices any suspicious activity close to electricity networks is asked to contact a 24-hour emergency hotline on 1850 372 999 and the Gardaí at 999/112.

The warning comes after three men appeared before The Criminal Courts of Justice on Thursday morning, 6 August, in connection with an arrest operation in Rathdangan, Co Kildare the previous day. Five men were arrested in connection with the theft of ESB overhead power cables. Two were subsequently released without charge and investigations are continuing.

Two cars were also seized in relation to the operation.

(JP)