Major Crackdown on Copper Wire Theft in Tirunelveli: Arrests Made, Investigations Ongoing

Tirunelveli, July 5, 2025 – In response to the growing concern over copper wire theft in southern Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli Police have intensified their efforts and made significant arrests. Reports indicate that a group involved in stealing copper wire worth ₹1 crore has been apprehended, shedding light on a series of such thefts impacting industrial and energy sectors.

Though an official public report confirming the ₹1 crore theft in one consolidated incident hasn’t yet surfaced, the Tirunelveli region has witnessed multiple thefts involving copper cables, tubes, and pipes, particularly from windmills and power stations.

Key Incidents of Copper Theft in Tirunelveli and Nearby Districts:

🔍 Tirunelveli 2016: Windmill Copper Theft Case

In a notable incident from 2016, police arrested three suspects for stealing 100 kg of copper wire from windmills located in the southern areas of Tirunelveli. A special investigative team was formed after repeated complaints from renewable energy operators. Based on the confessions of the accused, stolen property was recovered.

🚔 Thoothukudi 2023: TTPS Copper Heist

In 2023, a high-profile case in Thoothukudi saw the arrest of 10 individuals who targeted the Tuticorin Thermal Power Station (TTPS). The group stole a total of 690 kg of copper pipes and 834 copper tubes, entering the TTPS premises by boat, according to police investigations. This heist led to an internal probe within TTPS to identify possible insider involvement.

Why Copper Theft is a Growing Concern

Copper is highly valuable in the black market due to its widespread use in electrical wiring, wind turbines, and power stations. With rising metal prices, thefts have become increasingly common, especially in remote energy infrastructure zones where surveillance is often limited.

Authorities in Tirunelveli and surrounding districts are tightening security, increasing patrols near industrial zones, and installing CCTV systems to deter future thefts. They are also collaborating with energy firms to track material movement and develop secure inventory systems.

Conclusion

While the complete details of the ₹1 crore copper wire theft are still emerging, Tirunelveli Police’s proactive approach and historical success in cracking similar cases showcase their commitment to curbing this organized crime. As Tamil Nadu continues to develop its infrastructure, protecting critical materials like copper is crucial.

Stay tuned for verified updates as investigations progress.