Major Infrastructure Theft Discovered in Surrey
A significant copper cable theft involving over 8,000 pounds of material was discovered in Surrey last December, according to utility officials. The extensive theft occurred along 64 Avenue between 159th and 162nd Streets, where approximately 1,300 meters of underground wiring disappeared.
The Stolen Copper
Investigators found evidence of tampering in 14 maintenance holes, with cables completely removed from three locations. Based on current copper market values exceeding $8 per pound, the stolen materials carry an estimated value of $64,000.
This discovery came just 13 days after utility officials warned about a 300% increase in copper thefts from underground infrastructure over the previous 18-month period. The December 24 discovery occurred after a driver reported encountering an open maintenance hole cover on 64 Avenue.
Safety Risks and Theft Patterns
Utility representatives emphasized that copper theft creates serious public safety hazards: “One wrong move can be deadly,” warned officials, noting that cutting underground cables carries similar risks to tampering with live power lines.
Thieves reportedly used vehicles and winches to extract the heavy cables over several weeks between October and December. At least 22 similar large-scale copper thefts have been reported across British Columbia since April of this year.
Call for Public Vigilance
“Copper theft isn’t just property damage, it’s extremely dangerous and puts lives at risk,” said BC Hydro spokesperson Susie Rieder. “Open maintenance holes, exposed wiring and damaged electrical systems can all lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.”
Officials urge citizens to report any of the following immediately:
– Open or disturbed maintenance holes
– Suspicious activity near electrical infrastructure
– Workers without clearly marked utility vehicles
Emergency situations involving downed lines or damaged equipment require staying at least 10 meters away (equivalent to a standard bus length) and calling 911. Non-emergency reports can be made to BC Hydro’s security command center at 1-877-311-8611.
