Copper wire theft believed to causing cell service outage in Temagami and Marten River

OPP say damaged telecom fibre due to copper theft disrupted cell service, including 911, in Temagami and Marten River.

A cellular service disruption affecting Temagami, Marten River and surrounding areas was likely caused by copper wire thefts, Ontario Provincial Police said Wednesday.

In an update, the OPP said service should be restored sometime Wednesday afternoon.

Police said the cause is “damage to communication infrastructure,” which was reported to them at 8 a.m.

“Telecom fibre (had been) damaged, resulting in a major service outage,” the OPP said in a news release.

“Due to the outage, some residents may be unable to place or receive mobile calls, including 911. If you’re unable to connect, consider moving to an area where signal may be available. The OPP will maintain an increased presence in the community to support residents. We continue to work with local emergency response partners.”

Ongoing investigation

Early indications are that copper wire theft is the cause of the outage.

“The OPP is continuing to investigate,” police said.

“For updates on service restoration, contact your cellular service provider.”

If confirmed, the incident is the latest case of cell services being disrupted by copper wire theft, following a similar incident last month in East Ferris, near North Bay.

Copper thefts have been growing in recent months, including a $100,000 theft involving chopping down and stripping hydro poles in a remote area.

Just last month, North Bay police released images of a copper wire suspect in that community.

Anyone with information on the latest incident Wednesday is asked to contact the OPP’s non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online.