Cable thieves steal Highlands phone lines

Police are looking for thieves who left many BT customers in the western Highlands cut off by stealing thousands of pounds worth of telephone cable.

The thieves used bolt cutters to strip almost 500ft of cable from three poles. They also took 500ft of fibre optic cable from the scene.

The theft took place on the A861 between Strontian and Salen at about 1830 GMT on Sunday.

Copper cabling can fetch between £1,500 to £2,000 a tonne.

Northern Constabulary said those responsible for the theft would have needed a van or truck, and may have been posing as workmen.

Area Insp Dougie Allan said: "This type of crime can have a serious impact on rural communities as telephone services provide a lifeline in many areas.

"The reality is that someone could die if they cannot get telephone access to contact emergency services."

He said the thieves may be travelling in a Transit-type van and may have ladders to reach the poles.

Anyone with information was asked to contact police.