We first reported this problem in October of 2012 and now it appears that criminal elements in our midst have reignited their desire to steal telephone lines. Gardaí are requesting that people become more alert, following an increase in the theft of telephone lines from rural roadside locations across midland counties in recent weeks.
Rural areas like Templetuohy, Thurles, Co. Tipperary were having roadside telephone wires stolen back in 2012.
According to Gardaí, phone line theft is taking place along rural roadsides, usually during the hours of darkness; same targeted for their valuable copper content. Worse still, some metal junk yards are not asking questions as to where copper being offered to them for sale, is being legally procured.
In our neighbouring counties of Laois and Offaly, Gardaí and Eir claim that there have been 14 such cases of telephone line theft in recent weeks and these larcenies have been sporadic, right across the Gardaí division.
Also Gardaí state that the theft of copper cylinders and other copper fixtures and fittings, from vacant properties, also appears to be on the increase, with copper cylinders taken from some seven vacant properties in the Tullamore, Co. Offaly area recently.
The advise by Gardaí to the residents of Laois and Offaly, also holds good for Co. Tipperary dwellers; Note: Please secure any property you own, including buildings lying vacant and please do remain alert; reporting any suspicious activity immediately to Gardaí.
No REAL punishment for crime.