In the current fiscal years, there has been increased attacks on the copper network of Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC).

According to the incumbent operator's communications manager Golekanye Molapisi, “in the current financial year, we have been experiencing a lot of copper cable cuts and theft -both underground and overhead cables- which are being stolen and damaged at an alarming rate. The incidents, which are countrywide but mainly prevalent in the Kgatleng and Maun areas, inhibit our ability to provide quality communications services to customers.”

Apart from service interruptions, these thefts lead to loss of millions of Botswana pula because ongoing investments are needed to repair the damages.

The manager indicates that these thefts are due to the rise in the cost of copper on the international market. These copper thieves sell the products in black markets, he adds.

BTC, which has already hired private security firms to monitor its copper networks with no success is calling for citizens’ help. They are asked to report anybody seen attacking the firm’s telecom infrastructures.