SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Several RCMP detachments in Nova Scotia are investigating recent reports of copper wire theft and the resulting damage to infrastructure associated with these property crimes.

In Colchester County, investigators learned that telecommunications lines in two different areas were cut between July 28 and Aug. 4. Both thefts, which occurred in rural areas around Debert and Masstown, resulted in phone and internet outages in the area after lengths of cables were stolen, according to an RCMP news release.

In Cumberland County, officers learned that a significant length of a power line was cut and pulled from the ground outside a building in a rural area near Southampton. The theft occurred on or around Aug. 4.

In Hants County, investigators found that the theft of cable from a vacant building in Hantsport on Aug. 4 resulted in significant damage to the building’s electrical transformer.

Copper wire thefts have the potential to be incredibly dangerous for those involved, the RCMP warned. Interfering with power lines or electrical infrastructure without the proper training, equipment and expertise significantly increases personal and public safety risk, police say.

Anyone with information about these thefts or about where stolen metals are sold or received is asked to reach out to their local RCMP detachment or municipal police.