Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (Friday, December 30, 2022) – FortisTCI is investigating a case of attempted power theft in the vicinity of Caicos Lodge near Leeward Highway, Providenciales, that occurred on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, and caused an electrical pole to erupt in flames.
Evidence of a tool kit and other gear abandoned at the scene indicates that the individual(s) attempted to tap into what was thought to be a low-voltage circuit and instead encountered an energized high-voltage line. FortisTCI utility workers reported to the scene and the hazardous situation was contained in a safe and effective manner.
Power theft can lead to serious injury or death from electrical shock or fire. When an electric current is diverted, or attempts are made to stop, under-register or bypass a meter, the dangers and risks to the individual, the general public, and others significantly increase. Power theft by any means or scheme also creates hidden dangers for power grid safety and affects the power supply's quality.
Persons are urged to desist from this practice to protect themselves and the lives of others. FortisTCI will continue to monitor system data, investigate any abnormal electrical changes that are typical of possible power theft, and conduct field inspections to identify any signs of meter or equipment tampering. If power theft or meter tampering is detected at a premise or location, the police will be notified, and the service may be disconnected. Power theft is a criminal offense punishable by fines and prison sentences.
If you suspect power theft in your area, help keep our communities safe and report it to the relevant authorities. Contact 946-4313 to make a report for further investigation by FortisTCI. Reports can also be made anonymously.
