As stated by Inspector Peter Cooper, Area Commander – Canterbury Rural:
Police have identified an emerging series of thefts involving the removal of copper cabling from centre pivot and lateral irrigation systems throughout North Canterbury.
Our enquiries have identified 12 occurrences across Swannanoa, West Eyreton, Fernside, Oxford and Darfield.
Current reported losses exceed $130,000, excluding labour, contractor attendance, irrigation downtime and other consequential losses.
Offenders appear to be targeting copper power and control cabling from centre pivot irrigators for financial gain.
Most irrigators remain dormant throughout winter and are not routinely inspected so victims are only now discovering damage, and reporting it.
As people are inspecting and recommissioning irrigators for the coming season, we encourage anyone who notices damage to make a report to us.
Contact Police via our 105 service, either over the phone or online.
