Theft syndicate delays power restoration in 3 DavOr towns

By Anthony S. Allada
An organized theft group is operating in three severely typhoon-hit towns of Davao Oriental whose modus operandi is to steal copper wire inside transformers on electric posts.
“This is not the handiwork of a single person but of a syndicate. We appeal to everybody to be watchful and help us in stopping this illegal activity,” said Engr. Gregory Dukil, chief executive officer of the Davao Oriental Electric Cooperative (DORECO).
Dukil told Edge Davao Thursday that syndicate members do not only steal copper wire inside the transformers of the fallen electric posts, but also those which are still standing.
“The stealing happens during the night and early dawn, taking advantage of the blackout and absence of police personnel in the area, especially in remote barangays,” Dukil said.
He asked people for help because they alone cannot monitor all the areas even as the Davao Oriental provincial police office was already informed about the problem.
Dukil said copper wire is expensive, hence has been subjected to massive theft.
“And the sad thing is that once a transformer is damaged it will no longer be used and should be replaced. A transformer costs P50,000 each,” he said.
“We already have incurred huge debts just to restore power in the province and here come these thieves people who have taken advantage of the situation for their own good,” he said.
He doubted that their target to energize Cateel and Boston before the month ends could be realized because of this thievery.
As of now, more than 600 households in Baganga have become energized even as Task Force Restoration has doubled its efforts to bring back power to all areas of the province.
“Hopefully, we can complete the Baganga to Cateel line by Friday to give 24-hour service to Cateel,” he said.