GUELPH-ERAMOSA TOWNSHIP – Police want residents to stay vigilant after a thief stripped copper telecommunications wire within Guelph-Eramosa.
On July 27, Wellington County OPP responded to a report of damaged telecommunications infrastructure along Hwy. 7, East of Skyway Drive.
Police said two unspecified lengths of copper telecommunications wire were “deliberately cut” by an unknown suspect during the overnight hours of July 24 and July 25.
Wellington County OPP said the cost of materials and repairs are believed to exceed $5,000, but damaging infrastructure costs more than dollars.
“These lines support critical services like 911 emergency access, medical alert systems, and internet and phone connectivity,” an OPP press release said, “when they’re compromised, entire communities can lose access to emergency help and essential communication, putting lives at risk and disrupting daily life.”
Police said telecom infrastructure is often targeted for its copper content; SCS Metals Limited said copper is worth $7.70 per pound as of July 29, 2026, and has been consistently above the $7 mark in recent months.
The Wellington County OPP has asked the public to report any suspicious activity near telecom infrastructure to help protect the vital service.
Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact the Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. OPP reference number: E261072002.
Anonymous callers can contact Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington at www.csgw.tips or toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS or 8477 for a potential cash reward.
