DeterTech reports surge in copper theft in the United Kingdom (UK)

Crime analysts at DeterTech, a trusted security partner to critical infrastructure and law enforcement, are warning of a major rise in reported incidents of copper and cable theft across Greater Manchester and Lancashire.

Believed to be orchestrated by Organised Crime Groups (OCGs), the direct to threat to UK infrastructure is being driven by the sustained high price of copper, which hit $10,300 per tonne on 25th September 2025 – the highest recorded price since April 2024.

Cable theft from rail network

Cable theft from the rail network in Wigan resulted in widespread passenger disruption

There have been six key incidents reported in the North-West of England since 14th September, impacting energy, transport, utilities and renewables infrastructure. For example, in Bolton a site was targeted for 33 kv copper cable valued at just under £500,000.

Meanwhile, the theft of a significant quantity of string cable from a solar farm near Preston reduced the site’s energy output by around 40% risking the local power supply. Back in August, cable theft from the rail network in Wigan resulted in widespread passenger disruption and estimated losses to the UK economy of more than £1million.

Deal with the threats

Rachael Oakley, Head of Crime Intelligence, DeterTech, says: "The substantial price of copper is unfortunately driving high rates of offending across all forms of critical infrastructure. In order to protect energy, utilities, transport, and renewable infrastructure, it is imperative that fence lines are checked regularly, CCTV cameras are functioning correctly, and alarm monitoring centres are correctly equipped to deal with the threats posed."

Critical infrastructure providers, particularly those with sites in the North-West of the UK, are urged to audit site security plans and to consider taking additional steps to deter unwanted attention from OCGs. 

Direct threat to infrastructure

The current intelligence picture points toward an on-going direct threat to infrastructure, with implications for asset loss service disruption, regulatory penalties and public safety.

Operators are reminded to continue reporting all incidents of theft, suspicious vehicles, and hostile reconnaissance to DeterTech and Opal, the national police intelligence unit focused on serious organised acquisitive crime.