Copper theft charges at Mango Hill

A man has been charged with stealing after a search warrant was executed at Mango Hill yesterday following the theft of copper in the area last week.

Officers from Carseldine Criminal Investigation Branch were part of operation ‘Victor Surface’ targeting theft of copper wire from businesses and public infrastructure in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay areas.

It is alleged police received information from Energex in relation to the theft of copper from underground cable pits on Diamond Jubilee Way and Kinsellas Rd at Mango Hill on the evening of July 31.

On August 4, police executed a search warrant at a Kinsellas Rd property at Mango Hill where they found a large amount of allegedly stolen copper wire.

It will be further alleged while searching a shed on the property, police found tools, a firearm and number plates.

A 47-year-old Mango Hill man has been charged with two counts each of stealing (copper), receiving tainted property (copper and tools) and possession of dangerous drug (cannabis and diazepam).

He has also been charged with one count each of possession of a Category A weapon (rifle), possession of explosive (ammunition), possession of utensil (pipe and scales) and three counts of stealing (registration plates).

He was due to appear at Brisbane Magistrates Courts on Saturday.

Operation Victor Surface is ongoing, and anyone with information relating to the theft of copper wire is urged to tell police.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Phone 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

Quote this reference number: QP2301281135