Source: New Zealand Police
Police have crossed two men’s wires in west Auckland following an attempted copper theft.
A burglary was reported at a Massey telecommunications site at around 7pm on Tuesday.
Senior Sergeant Jon Winthrop, Waitematā West Area Response Manager, says units deployed into the area following the report.
“Two men had allegedly broken into power boxes on site, pulling wiring and equipment out.
“Our units arrived on scene startling the pair, forcing them to leave the copper wiring and other equipment and run on foot.”
Their efforts were in vain, and both men couldn’t outrun Police.
“They had tried to run through nearby properties and jumped over fences.”
Instead, the two men, aged 24 and 34, will be appearing in the Waitākere District Court today.
The 24-year-old man has been charged with burglary, possessing instruments for burglary, receiving stolen property and possession of methamphetamine.
Police have also charged the 34-year-old with burglary and possessing instruments for burglary.
“This offending is not only dangerous but also impacts important infrastructure for the public. Police will continue to respond and hold offenders to account,” Senior Sergeant Winthrop says.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/11/04/copper-theft-short-circuited/