Infrastructure theft targets public lighting in Oria and Porto Torres

Multiple instances of copper and infrastructure theft have been reported in Italy, targeting public lighting systems and causing safety concerns.

In Oria, a new traffic signal installed on the SP59 provincial road was stolen in the Spilonci district just five days after its installation. The opposition group ‘Scelgo Oria’ has criticized Mayor Cosimo Ferretti for his lack of public condemnation regarding the incident, noting that the theft affects a route frequently used by residents and pilgrims.

In Porto Torres, thieves have targeted the Balai coastal road, disabling 36 recently installed streetlights by stealing copper cables. The thefts occur by cutting cables during the day and retrieving the material at night to avoid detection. Mayor Massimo Mulas noted that the restoration costs are significant and highlighted the difficulty of monitoring such a vast area to prevent these recurring crimes.