Brussels/Lille – Belgian and French authorities have confiscated approximately 3.6 tonnes of suspected stolen cables in a series of coordinated operations targeting recycling companies in Northern France and Belgium.
The large-scale enforcement action, announced by the Nord prefecture, has led to multiple detentions and is part of ongoing efforts to curb metal theft in the region.
According to officials, the raids were conducted simultaneously in the Belgian city of Mouscron and the French city of Lille. In Mouscron, authorities uncovered 1.3 tonnes of stolen cables, while a further 2 tonnes were seized in Lille.
Investigators believe the cables were illicitly obtained, likely from public infrastructure, transport networks, and construction sites, before being sold to scrap dealers.
Cross-Border Crackdown on Metal Theft
The joint operation underscores the increasing cooperation between Belgian and French law enforcement agencies in tackling cross-border crime.
Metal theft, particularly of copper and other valuable materials, has been a persistent issue in Europe, with criminal networks targeting railway lines, telecommunications infrastructure, and energy grids.
A spokesperson for the Nord prefecture stated that the recovered cables are suspected to have been stolen from multiple locations.
“The scale of this seizure demonstrates the level of organised criminal activity involved in the illicit metal trade,” the spokesperson said. “Such thefts not only cause significant financial losses but also disrupt essential services, posing risks to public safety.”
Authorities have detained several suspects in connection with the operation, though their identities and affiliations have not yet been disclosed.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the theft network and whether additional individuals or businesses are implicated.
Impact on Public Infrastructure and Economy
The theft of cables, particularly those made of copper, has become a growing concern across Europe. Copper prices have surged in recent years, making the metal a prime target for thieves.
Stolen cables can cause widespread disruptions to rail networks, power supplies, and internet connectivity, affecting businesses and residents alike.
French transport and utility companies have repeatedly raised alarms over the impact of metal theft on operations.
The French National Railway Company (SNCF) has suffered numerous service disruptions due to cable theft, forcing authorities to strengthen security measures along railway tracks.
In Belgium, similar incidents have been reported, with authorities implementing stricter regulations on scrap metal sales to curb illegal trade.
Authorities Pledge Further Action
Following the latest seizures, both Belgian and French authorities have pledged to intensify their efforts against organised metal theft. Officials are working to trace the origins of the stolen cables and identify potential buyers in the black market.
Local governments have also urged recycling companies to exercise greater diligence in verifying the sources of materials they acquire. Stricter regulations and closer monitoring of transactions are expected to be implemented to prevent stolen metals from entering legitimate supply chains.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies on both sides of the border are expected to continue their cooperation, with further operations planned in the coming months.
The suspects detained in the raids are set to face legal proceedings, with charges likely to include theft, possession of stolen goods, and participation in organised crime.
