Detectives from the Western Criminal Investigation Branch have charged two men as part of an investigation into a series of alleged burglary, stealing and damage incidents targeting construction sites, TasNetworks and Hydro Tasmania infrastructure across the state.
A 42-year-old Campania man and a 37-year-old Tunnack man were arrested late Wednesday at Brady's Lake in the Central Highlands, by detectives from Western CIB and Glenorchy CIB, with support from the Special Operations Group.
Police conducted several vehicle and premises searches following the arrests and recovered approximately $30,000 worth of allegedly stolen copper and tools, including property stolen from an electrical contractor working at a Hydro Tasmania site.
Police allege the men were involved in a series of targeted thefts from TasNetworks and Hydro Tasmania sites, including the theft of copper, fuel and tools.
It is also alleged the men caused approximately $130,000 damage to TasNetworks infrastructure, including electrical transformers.
Police also allege the men stole about 400 litres of diesel fuel and a trailer valued at approximately $8,000.
The alleged offending has caused significant concern due to the potential impact on essential services, community safety and the integrity of critical public infrastructure.
"Electrical transformers are not scrap metal or ordinary property. They are essential infrastructure that supports Tasmania's electricity network and provides power to homes, businesses and the broader community," Detective Acting Inspector Luke Negri said.
"Anyone who targets this type of infrastructure is putting essential services at risk. These offences can cause power disruption, create serious safety risks and result in significant repair costs."
"The alleged theft of fuel, tools, copper and equipment from work sites also has a direct impact on contractors, businesses and the delivery of important infrastructure services across Tasmania."
"Interfering with electrical infrastructure is extremely dangerous. It places offenders, workers, emergency services and the public at risk of serious injury or death."
"Police take this offending seriously. We will continue to work closely with TasNetworks, Hydro Tasmania and other industry partners to identify, investigate and charge anyone involved in the theft or damage of critical public infrastructure."
The men have been charged with multiple burglary, stealing, attempted stealing and trespass matters. The men will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court on 10 August.
Police are reminding members of the public to report any suspicious activity near electrical substations, transformers, power infrastructure, construction sites, contractor compounds or fuel storage areas.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 180033000 or crimestopperstas.com.au.
