Police seized 2.6 tonnes of telecoms cables stolen for their copper content.

Two suspects, aged 28 and 30, were arrested for allegedly stealing telephone cables valued at 46,800 Euros (approximately 38,766 GBP) and causing extensive damage to infrastructure across Navarra, Spain.

Authorities intercepted a van and a car in Islallana, uncovering 2,620 kg (5,776 lbs) of telecommunications cable.

The duo is believed to be part of an itinerant criminal group operating nationwide, using rental vans and personal vehicles to avoid detection, often sleeping in the vehicles to evade capture.

The suspects are linked to the theft of 3.3 kilometres of telephone cables and the cutting of 23 utility poles between Espronceda and Torres del Río, Navarra. They also face charges related to the theft of fibre optic cables in Sesma, Navarra, resulting in an economic loss of nearly 47,000 Euros (approximately 38,929 GBP).

A third suspect is still at large, and the investigation has been handed over to the courts in Estella, Navarra.

Copper remains a critical material in global infrastructure, serving as a backbone for last-mile telecommunications, smart grids, and communication networks in smart buildings, traffic systems, and urban utilities. Its superior conductivity also makes it indispensable for computer chips and energy management systems.

Additionally, the rise of artificial intelligence is further driving copper demand. Trafigura, as reported by Reuters, estimates that AI could increase global copper demand by one million metric tons by 2030.

Bank of America predicts that supply shortages and growing demand will push copper prices to 5.44 USD per pound by 2026, an 11 per cent increase from current levels.