Foolhardy thieves targeting cables

South Yorkshire Police said yesterday they were “working closely” with Northern Powergrid to find the thieves and also raise awareness of the dangers of entering substations.

A spokesman said: “People 
who attack electricity substations are not only breaking the law, 
they are putting the safety of people, including themselves, at 
risk.

“High electricity voltage runs through these substations and there is a real risk of electrocution when entering these sites.

“This type of crime can have a major impact on the community, including schools and hospitals, who could be left with no electricity supply if cables are stolen.”

Inspector Jason Booth added: “We want to warn members of the public about the potential dangers, and we would urge the public to stay away from substations.”

Nigel Walker from Northern Powergrid described thefts from substations as an “utterly foolhardy act” which “put at risk the lives of not only the thieves but also the general public”.