Copper wire thefts disrupt cell service near North Bay

Two copper wire thefts are disrupting cellular service in the area of East Ferris Township, Ontario Provincial Police said Thursday.

The copper wire thefts took place overnight July 14 and July 16, and are affecting a communications tower located on Centennial Crescent in Corbeil.

“The tower is situated within a fenced compound secured with a padlock and chains,” the OPP said in a news release Thursday.

“Upon inspection, the enclosure was found unsecured, and the locking mechanisms were missing. The tower, which stands between two buildings, has cables running up from both structures. The cables appear to have been cut using a power tool. It is believed that the tower was then climbed and the opposite ends of the cables were also severed.”

911 calls may not go through

As a result, cell service could be affected in some areas, meaning 911 and other calls may not go through.

“If you’re unable to connect, consider moving to an area where a signal may be available,” police said.

“The OPP will maintain an increased presence in the community to support residents. We continue to work with local emergency response partners.”

On social media, Bell Canada said they are “working to repair the damage and restore service levels.”

The most recent update said Bell was aiming to have service restored by the end of the day.

“Copper theft continues to be a growing issue,” Bell said.

“These incidents are causing numerous customer outages, including access to critical emergency services like 911. We ask anyone who witnesses suspicious activity in the vicinity of telecom infrastructure to contact local law enforcement.”

Anyone with information regarding the copper wire thefts is asked to contact the North Bay OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.