# Railway copper cable thefts in Europe

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/railway-copper-cable-thefts-in-europe
> Updated: 2026-09-14T12:27:35.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Multiple incidents of copper cable theft have targeted railway infrastructure in Europe. 

In Italy, a series of thefts along the former Ferrovia Centrale Umbra line has resulted in the loss of approximately 20 tons of copper since the start of 2026, with an estimated economic impact exceeding 1 million euros. The Fit Cisl Umbria union reported that these thefts cause significant collateral damage to connected apparatuses and lead to construction delays. The union has called for continuous nightly surveillance at construction sites to mitigate these losses.

In Germany, the Bundespolizei are investigating the theft of signaling cables along the Bischofswerda–Zittau line. In mid-September 2026, thieves removed copper cables from a shaft in Zittau and cut signal cables between Mittelherwigsdorf and Niederoderwitz. These incidents caused train cancellations and delays, requiring rail replacement services.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-14: Railway cables stolen on Bischofswerda–Zittau line

The Bundespolizei are investigating the theft of over 385 meters of copper signaling cables on the Bischofswerda–Zittau railway line, causing service disruptions.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/railway-cables-stolen-on-bischofswerdazittau-line

### 2026-08-28: Copper thefts on Italian railway lines prompt calls for security

The Fit Cisl Umbria union is calling for nightly railway site security following the tenth copper theft of 2026, which has resulted in 20 tons of stolen material and over 1 million euros in damages.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/copper-thefts-on-italian-railway-lines-prompt-calls-for-security

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Cite as: Railway copper cable thefts in Europe. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/railway-copper-cable-thefts-in-europe