We have similar problems increasing badly in NZ over the last year with the high Cu prices.
Earth cables have been cut away from OH poles going to earth banks.
Sectionalisers earths have been cut hence no protection was available on certain feeders.
We have substation fences cut and earth cables removed from ABS switches and OCB's.
These people playing with their lives unless they have access to HV gloves.
Genuine scrapmerchants ask for driver license id and take note of registration plates of your car.
Bolt cutters and saba saws have been used to cut through the conduit. marks visible on the poles.
One day they will cut a live 11 or 33 kV feeder cable and we will find an arm or other bodypart somewhere.
