- Cable theft increases in Saxony-Anhalt
In Saxony-Anhalt, the number of cable thefts has significantly increased in recent years. According to the State Criminal Office, 327 cases of copper theft were recorded last year, compared to nearly 100 fewer cases five years ago. In total, cable theft has caused approximately 8.3 million euros in damage in Saxony-Anhalt over the past five years.
Last week, federal and state police in Magdeburg jointly arrested three suspected copper cable thieves. A witness observed the trio attempting to steal cables from a train station area. Police later discovered that the thieves' van contained approximately 850 kilograms of cables. This was an unusual find, even for the federal police, according to a spokesperson.
Increasing thefts from wind turbines and solar parks
Notably, there has been an increase in heavy thefts from wind turbines and solar parks, according to a spokesperson for the State Criminal Office. Wind turbines, in particular, are equipped with a significant amount of copper cables, sometimes up to several hundred meters. Copper is used in batteries of electric vehicles and semiconductor wiring, among other things. Due to concerns over low copper supplies, demand is expected to continue to rise, predicts the LKA. Thefts from energy facilities not only result in higher damage costs but also significantly impact infrastructure.
The Börde region is particularly affected
In recent years, there has been an increase in solar park thefts. While 42 thefts or attempts were recorded in 2020, there were 60 cases last year. So far this year, ten out of 24 solar park thefts have occurred in the Börde district, causing nearly one million euros in damage, according to the LKA.
Other areas are also experiencing similar issues. For instance, in wind farms, thieves are targeting cables of a thickness of several centimeters due to the high value of copper.
The increase in cable thefts is also affecting transmission lines, often requiring replacement cables of a thickness of at least one centimeter to maintain functionality.
