Large copper theft from Hawke’s Bay railway poses major safety risk, police ask public for help

More than 750m of copper was stolen from a railway bridge north of Clive. Photo / Bevan Conley

They help power the trains and alert people to when they are coming, but someone in Hawke’s Bay is stealing them.

Police are asking the public in Hawke’s Bay to report any suspicious activity around railway crossings and bridges in their community, after close to a kilometre of copper cable was stolen in only a week.

Senior Constable Pehi Potaka said in the week beginning June 23, more than 750m of copper cable was stolen from the railway bridge north of Clive, along with four level crossing bells stolen from railway crossings between April 12 and May 12.

Potaka said it was extremely concerning and a huge public safety risk.

“Railway core cables are responsible for transmitting power and signals to trains, which is crucial to keeping the rail systems operating safely and efficiently,” he said.

“Crossing bells are an essential part of public safety and play a huge role in warning people that a train is approaching. The removal of these bells has the potential to cause fatal accidents.”

Police said they took public safety very seriously and would like to remind offenders that “not only are you putting your community at risk when stealing these essential railway safety tools, but cutting any electrical wires comes with risk – including to yourself".

The police also wanted to remind scrap metal yards that police will be taking a hard line with anyone found to be receiving the bells or other stolen copper or metal.

“Anyone who sees anything at railway crossings and bridges that they are concerned about, such as wires that have been noticeably cut or bells missing, [should] contact the police immediately.”

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.