Cable theft is back in town as copper prices surge to historical highs in the global commodity markets and local scavengers respond by tearing up telecom cables to rip out obsolete copper lines for a quick buck at the scrap metal yard.
Recent incidents have prompted the Ministry for Policing and Communications and Telecom Fiji Limited to appeal to members of the public to help protect critical telecommunications infrastructure.
“Recent cases have seen individuals intentionally damaging telecommunications infrastructure, resulting in significant disruptions to services relied upon by homes, businesses, and public services,” Telecom Fiji said yesterday.
“In one particular area, three separate incidents were reported within the span of a single week, causing widespread connectivity outages.
“These acts not only interrupt telecommunications services but can also pose serious risks during emergencies when reliable communication networks are essential for public safety and coordination of emergency response services.”
Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua said the incidents are being taken seriously and the Ministry is working with relevant authorities to investigate and address the issue.
“These acts of vandalism affect not just telecommunications providers but the wider community that depends on reliable communication services.
“We urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity and to help protect infrastructure that plays an important role in our national development and safety.”
Telecom Fiji Chief Executive Officer Charles Goundar said the company is working closely with authorities to address the issue and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
Authorities are also investigating entities that may be purchasing stolen telecommunications materials as part of ongoing efforts to deter such activities.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activity around telecommunications infrastructure, including cables and network equipment, to the relevant authorities.
Under Fiji’s Scrap Metal Trade Act Section 5 (1), it is an offence to trade any public infrastructure without the approval of the Licensing Authority.
Copper prices have hit historical highs recently amid a tightening market.
A J.P. Morgan research analysis last November projected copper price to rise to an average of $US12,500/mt in the second quarter of 2026 and to stay at an average $US12,075 for the whole year.
Copper surged to a record $US14,527.50/mt on the London Metals Exchange on January 29 from around $US10,000/mt last November.
