Police in Scotland are investigating the theft of copper cables valued at tens of thousands of pounds from two wind farms in Aberdeenshire.
The thefts occurred overnight between Thursday and Friday (3–4 July) at wind farms located in Laurencekirk and Stonehaven. Authorities believe the incidents are connected and are appealing to the public for information.
At Tullo Wind Farm in Easter Tulloch, which is operated by Eneco, intruders forced open three turbines between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m., stealing internal copper wiring. A similar theft took place at the Meikle Carewe Wind Farm near Stonehaven—owned by The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG) and managed by RES—where a turbine was broken into and copper cables removed between 4 p.m. and 8 a.m.
“We believe these thefts are linked and that those responsible, due to the remoteness of both areas, would need to have used a fairly large vehicle,” said Detective Sergeant Kim Patterson of Kittybrewster Police Station. “Whilst the value has yet to be confirmed, it is believed it will run into tens of thousands of pounds.”
Officers are urging anyone who may have noticed suspicious vehicles or activity near either site to contact police.
“Officers would remind the public to be vigilant and ensure they are taking steps to ensure their property is safe and secure,” Patterson added.
