Man charged after copper theft causes tens of thousands in damage at Grafton Substation

Police have charged a man following a burglary at a Grafton substation which created a significant amount of damage.

Auckland City CIB has been investigating since a lone offender allegedly entered the facility on Madeira Lane on the morning of 26 September.

Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Friend says the man allegedly targeted copper casings from the substation, which supplies power to separate buildings at an apartment complex.

“While committing his offending the man allegedly created tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.

“A search warrant was executed at a Manurewa address last night, and a person of interest in our investigation was located,” he says.

The 42-year-old man has been charged with burglary and intentional damage over the copper theft. He has been summonsed to appear in the Auckland District Court on 12 October.

“This is an excellent outcome. Police will continue to target those who are committing this sort of offending and hold them accountable,” Detective Senior Sergeant Friend says.

“Offenders that think a hi-vis vest is a good disguise should think again, we’re well aware of the tactic and this doesn’t work.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Friend says it’s a good time to remind people to call Police on 111 if they witness suspicious activity around commercial properties or other areas.