Reward offered after repeated cable thefts cut off homes and businesses

Crimestoppers and Openreach, the UK’s largest phone and broadband network, are appealing for information following a series of recent cable thefts in and around Doncaster, the Humber and parts of north Nottinghamshire. 

A reward is being offered by Openreach through Crimestoppers for anonymous information on the thefts, which left emergency services, residential premises and businesses without the use of their phones, broadband or TV services. Large sections of live cable were dragged from the underground communications network using 4x4 vehicles, and significant damage was also caused to street furniture and farmland.

Openreach has a partnership with Crimestoppers that offers rewards for information given anonymously to the charity about cable thefts that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. 

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If you have any information on these incidents or know who was involved, please contact us 100% anonymously - guaranteed -  on 0800 555 111 or fill in our quick and secure online form right here on our website. You must mention your interest in receiving the reward on your initial contact. 

Give information anonymously

Gemma Gibbs, Crimestoppers Regional Manager for Yorkshire and the Humber, said:

“Never underestimate the damage caused by cable theft. This is not a victimless crime, as the impact can be substantial. 

“The people responsible may be known locally, and even a small piece of information could help. Crimestoppers guarantees complete anonymity, a promise that we have kept since we were established back in the 1980s.”

An Openreach spokesperson said:

“We’re deeply disappointed that some local communities are once again facing disruption due to criminals targeting our network.

“We’re working closely with local police forces to prevent further incidents and bring those responsible to justice. Our engineers are working around the clock to restore services and get everyone back online as quickly as possible.

“These attacks cause serious disruption to daily life, pose risks to vulnerable individuals, and create significant inconvenience for residents and local businesses.

“We urge anyone who sees suspicious activity near our network to report it to the police by calling 101. If a crime appears to be in progress, please dial 999 immediately. Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous and be eligible for the reward, please contact Crimestoppers.”

Give information anonymously

1 July 2026