Nova Scotia RCMP investigate copper wire thefts causing outages

The RCMP is investigating a series of copper wire thefts across northern and central Nova Scotia that have resulted in significant property damage and telecommunications outages. Between July 28 and August 4, thieves cut and stole telecommunications lines in Colchester County, causing phone and internet service losses in the Debert and Masstown areas.

Additional incidents were reported in Cumberland County, where a power line was pulled from the ground near Southampton, and in Hants County, where copper theft caused damage to an electrical transformer in Hantsport. Investigators noted that these crimes are “incredibly dangerous” and difficult to solve because stolen metals are often melted down, making it hard to trace their origin.

Canadian telecommunications providers have reported a rise in such activity. The Canadian Telecommunications Association noted that thefts and vandalism quadrupled in the previous year. While major companies like Bell Canada and Telus Corp. are transitioning to fibre-optic networks, many residents still rely on copper connections for essential services, including 911 calls.