Copper theft targets French infrastructure and EV charging stations

France is experiencing a rise in organized copper theft targeting essential public and private infrastructure. Driven by high global copper prices and industrial demand, criminal networks are increasingly targeting telecommunications, public lighting, and electrical grids.

A recent significant incident occurred on the A62 motorway near Toulouse, where 14 ENGIE electric vehicle charging stations at the Frontonnais Sud service area were disabled. Thieves cut cables to steal the copper, leaving motorists unable to recharge and forcing some to call tow trucks. This attack occurred only six weeks after the site was renovated to become one of the largest charging hubs in the Occitanie region.

Authorities note that these thefts are part of a broader trend affecting various sectors, including SNCF catenaries and telecom cabinets. In response, law enforcement is increasing patrols and tightening traceability procedures for precious metals to combat these sophisticated criminal networks.